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The undergraduates have descended upon Ann Arbor – squirrels are being happily fed and newcomers are flummoxed by the Michigan left and one-way streets. But the students’ return has heralded the return of yet other Michigan traditions – cooler weather (and pumpkin-spice lattes) but, most importantly, football season. This past weekend marked the first home game and it’s always wonderful to see the Big House filled with its 110,000-plus inhabitants, cheering on the Maize and Blue.

But, this year in particular, I want to cheer on the Maize and Blue not just in the Big House or Crisler Arena (basketball arena), but also in the soccer stadium, the tennis courts, the field hockey arena, and more. It’s starting to hit me that this will be my last year as a Michigan student, and that’s definitely bittersweet.

Being a Michigan student has defined much of my identity for a long time. After some calculation earlier this week, I realized that a child starting first grade at the same time as I started UM coursework would now be a senior in high school. Oy; now I really feel old when I see the excited, nervous, and obviously freshmen as they navigate their way around campus.

One student program I have greatly enjoyed in recent years is the HAIL app (acronym stands for Honoring Attendance, Involvement & Loyalty). When students attend a sporting event, they “check in” with the app and earn points. These points can then be redeemed for prizes, such as Nike swag or other M-Den apparel. I’ve gotten some pretty cool things during the last few years, such as a Nike women’s football jersey (and my now-game day staple) last year. In order to ensure I fully enjoy the myriad sports experiences Michigan has to offer, I’ve been attending more events this year so far and having a blast. For example, earlier today, I attended a women’s field hockey event and was able to see goalkeeper Sam Swenson dancing to “Magic” before the meet began. I also picked up a clear plastic cup that, when filled with cold liquid, turns bright yellow. I swear, there’s only water in that cup!

I am thankful to have finished all of my exams for medical school at this point, so I can spend my evening hours cheering on Michigan instead of studying for the next shelf. And on that note, Go Blue!