‘Twas the semester before last, when all through campus

Every creature was scurrying, hurrying like mice.

Seniors tending to their classes with care

Juniors with hopes that they soon would be there.

Freshmen would be restless, cramped in their beds,

With visions of college waltzing through their heads.

The past was the past and the present was here

For them the start of college was more than a new school year.

With so many options and things to do,

I’d like to advise a few of you.

Away to new endeavors quickly, college will go by in a flash.

Open up your minds and learn how to make cash.

Perhaps some ballroom might peak your interest,

Yet for the highlight type rugby would be best.

When to wondering eyes some should appear tempting

Remember that BU offers both bowling and fencing.

It will be up to you to live so lively and quick,

You might know in a moment if you need a greek fix.

But with all extracurricular, do not forget the Bearcat roar

For as long as the Hooligans whistle and shout,

Fame to our alma mater will soon come about.

“In the rolling hills of Binghamton

‘Neath ever-changing skies

Where two gently flowing rivers meet

We form our cherished ties.”

And so soon these leaves will dry,

Then around winter will come, snow in the sky,

One would best be hitting the readings past due

‘Cause all will have a load of finals and term papers to do.

Best of luck to the incoming Binghamton class of 2012. Take advantage of all the school has to offer — it’s much more than academics that sustain a healthy individual!

(Nods to both “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” and “In the Rolling Hills of Binghamton,” our Alma Mater)