The First-Year Walk is a time-honored tradition at Gettysburg College, when students retrace the steps students, faculty, and townspeople took in 1863 to hear President Abraham Lincoln deliver the Gettysburg Address at the Gettysburg National Cemetery.
Take a look back at highlights from the Class of 2028’s First-Year Walk in the video below.
Humans of Gettysburg: Fernando Levy '28
As an international student from Managua, Nicaragua, Fernando Levy ’28 wanted to attend a college with a close-knit campus in a beautiful location, a vibrant international student community, and ample ways to get involved. He found all three at Gettysburg College.
On Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024, during the annual First-Year Walk, Levy accepted the key to Gettysburg from Gettysburg Mayor Rita Frealing. Held during Orientation, the First-Year Walk commemorates the walk that students and faculty took on Nov. 19, 1863, accompanying President Abraham Lincoln through town to attend the dedication of Gettysburg National Cemetery. During this dedication, Lincoln delivered his Gettysburg Address, calling upon us to be dedicated to the unfinished work of our time.
Looking back on his decision to apply Early Action to Gettysburg College, Levy is encouraged by the possibilities of realizing his potential now that he's a student here.
“I was honored to be selected as the student recipient of the key to Gettysburg during the First-Year Walk, a tradition that truly symbolizes how this place values each student. This moment is truly something that I will cherish as a defining start to my journey here,” he said. “Opportunities like this are just one example of the unexpected and wonderful experiences you could have here. You never know what surprises and opportunities await you at Gettysburg, and that’s what makes it so special.”
Levy plans to major in business, organizations, and management and is looking forward to meeting new people from all over the United States and the world on campus. Beyond the classroom, Levy hopes to play on the men’s club soccer team. He also enjoys playing video games in his free time.
“I appreciate being in a place where students are more than just a number. At Gettysburg, professors and staff take the time to know you personally, which creates a strong sense of support,” he said. “I’m excited to dive into the next four years at Gettysburg and make the most of this unique experience.”