2026 Executive Team

Photography by Kaitlyn Rehnstrand

If you're reading this, welcome to Madison.

The beginning of the year is filled with a ton of feelings: excitement, nervousness, and uncertainty. But through all those moments, do not forget to cherish every second because, in four short years, you will be coming back to Madison for one last time, wondering how it all went by so quickly. Embrace the new experiences, step outside your comfort zone, and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way.

- Alyssa

While you are making the most of everything around you, remember to give yourself grace and recognize how incredibly you are doing so far. It can be hard in the beginning of college to get mixed up in all of the things going on on campus and forget that this is your first time doing this, and it can be hard. Give yourself credit, and make time to give yourself self-care and love. Everyone is in the same boat, and you are not alone. Make time for the things you love to do and what makes you happy. Understand that this is a huge change in your life, and it is okay to not be comfortable at the beginning. After you realize that, start getting comfortable with the uncomfortable; it will take you so far!

– Emma 

Part of getting comfortable with the uncomfortable is being willing to put yourself out there. Be open to new opportunities. Look at the calendar of events, look through the clubs that are offered at UW Madison, and just take a walk through buildings. There are so many amazing resources and opportunities on campus that you might not know about unless you put yourself out there and go for it. I think a lot of times people can get nervous about doing something new, or not knowing anybody, but I encourage you to do it scared. Each new day is a new opportunity for something great, even if it is as small as finding your new favorite study spot.

– Isabelle 

As you step into these new experiences, do not compare your experience to anyone else. Social media can make it seem like everyone else is having the perfect freshman year, but you have to remember that it is only a highlight reel. Your first year can be uncomfortable and overwhelming, but it can also be the most exciting and independent year of your life! There will be ups and downs, and that is okay. Give yourself time to adjust, be open-minded, and embrace all the feelings that come with starting something new. You will find your people, discover new passions, and create memories you never expected. Trust that things will fall into place, and remember that you do not have to have it all figured out right away!

– Mia 

When things do not go exactly as planned, look for the little things that make you happy. As a senior, I’ve learned that practicing gratitude, even during difficult moments, can completely change your perspective. When things feel chaotic, take a second to notice the little moments that make you happy, whether it’s a good friend, a little laugh, or simply having a place to call home. It may feel silly at first, but focusing on the good can completely shift your perspective. As you start this new chapter, remember to give yourself grace, take things one day at a time, and find something to be grateful for each day. You’ve got this!

– Hannah 

Most importantly, have patience with yourself. You are not going to have everything figured out right away. You are still adjusting to a new environment, and it is going to take time to get used to. You may feel like you do not belong or that you have not found your people yet, and that is okay. Take a deep breath, have patience with yourself and the environment around you. You will find a space where you belong; you will find your people. It just takes time.

– Kaitlyn 

So if you’re reading this at the beginning of your freshman year, remember: you don’t have to know exactly where you’re going. Say yes when you can. Give yourself grace when things feel hard. Be patient when things don’t happen as quickly as you hoped. Look for the little moments, and most of all, let yourself experience it all. 

One day you’ll be the senior coming back to Madison for the last time, wondering how four years could have passed so quickly. 

Until then, take it all in. You’ve got this! 

2026 Exec. Team., University of Wisconsin

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