I walked through the door one minute early for a 9:35 a.m. class — my first college class ever. And I face-planted.

Seriously, face to floor. The kind of thing you see in movies and laugh at because how can anyone possibly do something more embarrassing to make a first impression.

I sprang up like I had just landed some incredible gymnastics move. My face was the color of a tomato and my books were all over the floor. (Note: No one is too cool to use a backpack.)

A girl ran over to help me and offered me the seat next to her. I was so flustered that I couldn’t remember how to form the words to say thank you, so I just looked at her and smiled. I never forgot that girl’s kindness.

Like many of you, I came to GW knowing no one. I left the high school, family and friends I loved to come to college. It freaked me out. To have a stranger offer me help, without hesitation, without worrying that the professor had already begun his lecture, amazed me.

The message behind my story is this: Take chances on people, and never miss an opportunity to pay it forward. Many Colonials have helped build this community, and you now have the opportunity to pave the way for future students who will come after us.

As GW students, we seize the opportunities given to us. We strive to make ourselves better — through classes, internships, extra-curricular activities and community service — and grow our community by working together. Remember our namesake George Washington’s mantra, “Deeds, Not Words,” and know that only by taking action can we truly make an impact.

And the Student Association is always here to help. Our goal is to make students’ lives better – to help you get to where you need to go. The SA will always be here to help by advocating on your behalf and supporting you in your everyday lives. Remember that we’re all students too, and we are all going through the same things you are.

As you join our community, never be afraid of the uncertainty that comes with trying something new. Your time at GW will be full of new experiences. Always embrace diversity and the incredible opportunities that we have as students at GW. I’m proud to be a Colonial, and I hope you all are too — because this is an incredible place with amazing opportunities. Don’t be afraid to try new things. Get involved. And most of all, have fun — because college is awesome.

From one Colonial to another, welcome to GW, Class of 2017. I couldn’t be prouder to have you join our community.

Raise High!

Julia Susuni is the 2013-2014 Student Association President.