Hear about Katie and Arden’s first semester abroad!

Katie and I's friendship has grown naturally over time. From meeting Katie as summer roommates, to becoming travel buddies, and then sisters in Alpha Xi Delta, I have always known I can count on her.  

We first met when we became roommates over the summer for Global at Home for First Semester Study Abroad. Over those three weeks when we were roommates, we became close, did basically everything together, from sitting next to each other in class, going to the gym, and eating meals together.  

We then both got the opportunity to spend a semester abroad together through the Georgia Tech First Semester Study Abroad Program in Metz, France. This experience allowed us to explore new places and create amazing, long-lasting memories together. We went to Paris, Amsterdam, Germany, and many other places together. The memories made with Katie on these trips are ones I will remember for a lifetime.  

Returning to Georgia Tech Campus in the Spring, Katie and I roomed together again, and we both decided to join a sorority through the Continuous Open Bidding Process. Going through this process, I had my best friend by my side, which made it even more meaningful. We both ended up joining Alpha Xi Delta, which felt like a full-circle moment for us.  

Joining Alpha Xi has given us the opportunity to become even closer and strengthen our friendship through sisterhood events, social events, and even just meals at the house together. We now get to call each other sisters, roommates, and travel buddies. I feel so lucky to have Katie in my life in all these capacities and am thankful for Georgia Tech and Alpha Xi Delta for bringing us together.