Hi! My name is Daniel Welch and I am 20 years old. I am currently a junior at Youngstown State University in Youngstown, Ohio, where I am pursuing a degree in Music Education. I know it sounds a little strange, a music major in Gettysburg studying the Civil War; trust me, it's a little overwhelming for me sometimes too! The Civil War has always been a passionate study for me so I figured immersing myself in it for a semester would be a great opportunity (and a break from tiny practice rooms).  The staff of Civil War Era Studies showed up to help us all move in - even Dr. Guelzo was there giving us his moral support.
Anyway, I moved in today and what an experience. I was a commuter at Youngstown and lived at home, so preparing to move out here and actually doing it required a little hard work. The room that I am staying in, "James Longstreet," is great, but I have to admit it reminds me of Ralphie from "A Christmas Story" in his pink bunny suit. It truly is a pink nightmare, as far as the wall color goes.
One of the activities during the first week was dinner at the Dobbin House. I guess college food isn't so bad after all! Something else we did was build a fence on the field at Pickett's Charge. How awesome was that?? Never did I think I would be doing something like that while here at Gettysburg College. The best part about that day was being able to talk to my new housemates while working and getting to know them better. The five of us guys definitely formed a close bond that day, I mean we had too; we are out numbered in the house twelve to five. Well I can't wait to see what else this first week holds in store and the beginning of the semester so check back for more updates!