Tag Archives: Ashley Woo

Baylor, Now and Forever

Posted on by
Reply

By Ashley Woo

Over Spring Break, I decided to be nonconventional and stay in Texas. One of my roommates is from out-of-state, so my other roommates and I decided that we should use this as a last push to convince her to stay in Texas after we graduate in May. Our first stop on our tour around Texas was Dallas, where we stayed with one of my very best friends Abigail. She was our tour guide for the day, taking us to have dinner in Uptown and dessert in Victory Park, driving us around the Arts District and showing us the Tri Delta house at Southern Methodist University. However, one of my favorite parts of my time in Dallas was when we were having Sunday lunch. Abigail’s mom is part of the Baylor family and also a Tri Delta alumnae. During lunch, we got a chance to ask her what life was like when she was still a student at Baylor. It was interesting to hear how things were actually very similar to what they are like now.

At one point, she pulled out her old yearbooks to show us visual representations of what she was talking about. As we flipped through the yearbook, it was fascinating to see what current professors, deans and advisors looked like during that period of their life. To think that the current Dean of the Hankamer Business School participated in Sing, float, Pigskin and other student events is a bit awkward to think about. However, because of Baylor’s emphasis on maintaining tradition, everything looked very similar to what you could see today, but in black and white. Things were done the same way, buildings looked the same, but of course, clothing choices and hairstyles were definitely a bit aged. One of my favorite things to see was what Sing looked like several years ago. Costumes were much more simple, but the amount of time and energy put into each act was the same, if not more.

All in all, spending an afternoon looking at old Baylor yearbooks was both fun and informative. Even though Baylor is focused on growth, it was encouraging to see that Baylor has not moved away from its deep rooted tradition.

Sing

Posted on by
Reply

By Ashley Woo

Pic 1

Here at Baylor, the end of February and beginning of March can only mean two things: Spring Break is coming up, and Sing is FINALLY here. For those of you who don’t know what All-University Sing (or Sing for short) is, I am here to give you the 411 on all things Sing – and just a forewarning, it is a really really big deal.

Pic 2

One of the oldest traditions at Baylor, All-University Sing is one of the largest off-Broadway productions in the nation and has been performed by fraternities and sororities at Baylor since 1953. In fact, Sing celebrated its 60th anniversary last year! Members of each fraternity and sorority elect several chairs, who are in charge of developing the organization’s act for that particular Sing season. Every year a couple organizations opt to pair up with each other, but generally, organizations decide to rely on their own strengths to create a winning act.

Pic 3

The big thing about Sing is the theme. Sing chairs develop their acts with their producers for more than four months, but they must keep everything a secret. In fact, chapters usually don’t find out their theme until a couple weeks before the first practice or, in some cases, DURING the first practice! Even then, Sing chairs stress the importance of keeping the themes a secret until the opening night of the show. During Sing season (early January to the end of February), each organization practices for several hours almost every day. When it gets closer to the performances, weeks are filled with dress rehearsals, audio techs, open stages and other rehearsals to make sure that you are as prepared as you can be. It is during that time that the Sing chairs really see what works in the act and what might need to be tweaked. And then…after two months of hard work and countless hours practicing to perfect every move, you get to perform six times on the stage of Waco Hall. These performances are judged, and the top eight acts are given an invitation to perform at Pigskin, which is a show during Homecoming weekend. In addition, the top three acts are given awards as well as a variety of People’s Choice Awards.

Pic 4

This year, my sorority’s Sing theme was Egypt, specifically titled, “Take Me Through the Pyramids.” My favorite part of the costume was definitely the wig. It was fun to see everyone with short black hair! In the end, Tri Delta was awarded with 2nd place and received a Pigskin invitation. Of course, we were all so excited that we were able to represent our chapter in such an incredible manner. However, my favorite part about Sing was definitely being able to spend time with all my best friends performing on the Waco Hall stage. Sing is such a unique and incredible tradition that only happens at Baylor. Being able to participate in such a wonderful part of Baylor’s history and has truly deepened my love for my school.

Ring By Spring

Posted on by
1

By Ashley Woo

Pic2

This past week, I received my Baylor University class ring. To be honest, I had been pretty hesitant about ordering one ever since I was a junior; I just didn’t think that many people got rings and didn’t really think it was that important. In addition, I thought of the traditional bulky class ring that my dad had, and I did not think that that huge ring would look good on my small fingers. However, I was definitely wrong. I soon realized that getting a ring was definitely a very worthwhile investment.

The first thing that I was wrong about was the lack of importance of getting a class ring. As I quickly came to realize that post-college this special piece of jewelry serves a symbol of where you come from. I think it is so cool that Aggie alumni wearing their rings with such pride. In fact, it’s rare to see an Aggie not wear his or her ring. The ring is a symbol of pride for your school, and being a Baylor fanatic – this had me sold.

Pic1

The next thing to do was create my ring. There are actually many different companies that are licensed to make rings for with the Baylor seal. I fell in love with San Jose Jewelers. They are a local company that is known for making class rings that give a modern twist to the traditional rings. They are easy to work with and go the extra mile to make sure you love your ring. The best part is, within a couple weeks, you get your ring!

I am so pleased with the way that my ring turned out, and so thankful that I made the decision to get a ring. Though I got it my last semester in college and will only get to wear it for a short time as a Baylor student, I can assure you that this ring won’t be coming off for a long time!

Happy Birthday Baylor

Posted on by
Reply

By Ashley Woo

This past weekend, Baylor University celebrated its birthday. With all the excitement surrounding Baylor this year, it is easy to focus the future and what it holds. However, as the oldest continually operating university in Texas, we should also remember the rich history of Baylor University.

Pic 1

 

 

 

 

 

Ever since coming to Baylor, I have seen how much pride the students, faculty, staff, alumni and administration have in the history of Baylor. One day during Line Camp, we took buses to Independence, Texas, where we got to experience firsthand, the special place that is the birthplace of the university. We spent the day learning about the deep history, whether it was through listening to the stories being passed down to us or walking around the historical place. Being greeted by President and Chancellor Ken Starr as I walked through the four columns has been one of my favorite memories that I have made at Baylor. What a great way to be welcomed in the Baylor family!

Pic 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Though Baylor University was established more than 150 years ago, the principles that govern the university seem to have been frozen in time. One of my favorite things about Baylor is seeing the similarities in what the university was and what it is now. This great institution is always looking to expand her horizons, but continues to abide by the core principles that the university was founded upon.

Happy Birthday Baylor!

Christmas Time is Here, Happiness and Cheer

Posted on by
Reply

By Ashley Woo

As the semester comes to a close, a sense of excitement seems to creep onto campus. We all know that with each passing day, Christmas gets closer. But of course, with Baylor being THE greatest university in the world, the university goes all out for the holiday in an event they call Christmas on 5th Street.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lights that outline to peaks of the buildings, themed Christmas trees in the Student Union Building and garland on all the lampposts – it seems as though within a week the entire campus of Baylor has been transformed to resemble a small Christmas town in anticipation of Christmas on 5th.

On the day that of the event, there are so many things to do on campus and so many photo ops. This year, I was given the opportunity to sing in the International Christmas Caroling Competition with my Chinese class. Every year, each language class offered at Baylor prepares two songs that they sing in their respective languages. If you’re in the mood for more Christmas music, the Baylor Religious Hour choir also puts on two shows during the night. However, if want to use this time to get some Christmas shopping done, local vendors from around the Waco area set up shop on the third floor of the Student Union Building (SUB). Be sure to get some Christmas cookies on the way up there!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Also in the SUB is a place to take pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. While waiting they have cute Christmas decorations for you to take picture with. Here is this year’s picture with the Claus’.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other things that happen on Christmas on 5th include Kappa Omega Tau’s Annual Christmas Tree lighting, carriage rides, petting zoo, a Christmas movie on the lawn (“Elf”) and a concert by Matt Kearney.

One of my favorite things to see during Christmas on 5th is the tree farm. Many student organizations on Baylor’s campus decorate a Christmas tree with ornaments that usually represent their organizations passions for a chance to win money that goes to their philanthropy. Pictured below is the Tri Delta Christmas tree. Personally, I think this one is the best, but I might be biased.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Christmas time is one of the most wonderful times of year, and being at Baylor has made me love this holiday even more. At the end of the day, my favorite thing about Christmas is not the fanfare and festivities (while those are great!), but being able to spend time with the people I love and cherish: my friends and family.

Merry Christmas y’all.

The Baylor Marina

Posted on by
Reply

By Ashley Woo

The Baylor Marina is something I did not discover until my junior year. Tucked right next to the athletic complex, the Marina is truly one of Baylor’s hidden gems. Located on the banks of the Brazos River, it is a place where students can come who are looking for a study break or just a place to have fun. Whether it is kayaks, canoes, paddleboats or stand-up paddleboards – the Baylor Marina has it all, and it’s FREE for all Baylor students.

However, in my opinion, the best feature of the marina – the peaceful environment – cannot be measured by any monetary value. When I went for the first time, I was expecting to have fun with my roommates but who knew that it would actually be one of the most relaxing days that I have ever experienced at Baylor. Because it is right next to campus, you are still able to see some of the main buildings of Baylor while canoeing down the Brazos. However, you also get a perfect mix of nature as well.  Here are just some pictures that I took during my first time at the Marina.

 

 

If you are looking for a fun, relaxing, FREE and scenic afternoon, you should definitely head down to the Baylor Marina. With a valid student ID, you have access to kayaks, canoes, lifejackets and more!

#MyBaylorFamily

Posted on by
Reply

By Ashley Woo

During last night’s football game against Oklahoma, I was reminded of the one aspect that drew me to prefer Baylor over any other university – and that was the aspect of family. In a silly kind of way, the fact that every single person (OU fans excluded) in the stadium rose to Baylor’s call for a blackout reminded me of my first thought when I stepped onto Baylor campus, “I am not just a number or a file in the admissions office. I’m part of something that is much greater than me.” We yell together, cheer together, heckle the Oklahoma players together and celebrate victories together.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Baylor family doesn’t just stop at football. When I came for my first campus visit, so many random people offered to show me around and tell me the good places to eat in Waco. I’ve heard many people say, “You will never meet a stranger at Baylor.” Because Baylor is a mid-sized, private school, you really cannot walk to class without seeing someone that you know. Even with strangers, there is a sense of camaraderie and Baylor pride. One of my favorite stories to tell my friends is the time I lost my wallet my freshman year. After eating lunch with a couple of my friends at Student Union Building (SUB), I was in a hurry to get to class, so I did not realize until later that I had left my wallet. Not only did a senior guy contact me that he had my wallet, but he also drove over to my dorm to return it to me.

Another one of my favorite things about my Baylor family is that Baylor celebrities are ordinary people, who happen to do incredible things. They are supportive, down to earth and straight up genuine. Last week, my sorority hosted a spaghetti dinner benefitting our philanthropy. It was awesome to see that Bryce Petty (Baylor quarterback) and Eddie Lackey (Baylor linebacker) came to support our cause.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

One person who has become famous for his support and love for the Baylor family is president Judge Kenneth Starr. It not uncommon to see him at various events on campus or running the Baylor Line with the freshman class. His commitment to selflessly serving Baylor is seen so evidently through his involvement with the student body.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, my Baylor family is not complete without the friendships that I have made during my time at Baylor. Committing to go to a school where I only knew a few people was one of the biggest tests of faith in my life. However, looking back now as a senior, I have found that God has blessed me with women that have truly become my best friends and most importantly, my family.

“F” is for Fall

Posted on by
Reply

By Ashley Woo

As the leaves change and the cooler weather sets in, I know that fall has officially arrived at Baylor’s campus. To me, fall brings opportunities to wear scarves and cute clothing, an exciting atmosphere and a reminder that Christmas is nearing. But, at Baylor, fall means Homecoming, parades, bonfires, Fall Festivals and so much more. I have compiled a short list of things that I am reminded of during the fall. Oh, and they happen to all start with the letter “F.”

Family: While they are not exclusively a fall item, my love for my family seems to grow even greater during this season. This past Homecoming, my parents came up from Houston to celebrate another Baylor victory against Iowa State with my sister and me. Even though they did not attend Baylor, they have embraced my love for Baylor as their own.

Family

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Friends: During the fall, I love to just stay home with friends where we watch movies, bundle up in blankets and sip hot chocolate. The weather is also perfect for outdoor activities. This week, I had a picnic in Cameron Park, carved a pumpkin with my boyfriend on the suspension bridge and had meaningful conversations in the chapter room with my Tri Delta sisters.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Football & Fans: As the season inches closer and closer to the end, Baylor football is becoming increasingly exciting. Cooler weather means I can finally wear my cute green and gold clothes without melting away five minutes into the first half. We also tend to play better teams, which makes the games more and more exciting. I am keeping my fingers crossed that fall is also a time of fantastic Baylor wins.

Football

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Floats and bonFires: These two items are the symbols of Baylor Homecoming. Each year, the freshman class builds a massive bonfire after attending Freshman Mass Meeting. The bonfire is lit the next night to symbolize that Homecoming festivities have officially begun. The floats are displayed the next morning during the oldest and largest collegiate parade in the WORLD. This year, my sorority paired with the men of Pi Kappa Phi to create a riverboat float, reminiscent of the famous Brazos Belle.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Though all these things contribute to my love for the fall, I am continually reminded that God is at the center of it all. He is the ultimate designer of the seasons and creates beautiful things that His children can enjoy and love.

Walking in Memphis

Posted on by
Reply

By Laura Teague with additions from Torie Abbott and Ashley Woo

Last weekend for Fall Break, I got to travel with a group of 52 members of Delta Delta Delta to Memphis, Tenn., to visit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Tri Delta chapters nationwide chose St. Jude to be our philanthropy in 1999. Since then we have raised millions to help fund this amazing hospital! The children in Memphis usually have heart-breaking illnesses, but through this hard time their family does not have to pay a cent for anything, including medical care, MRIs, housing, food and more. The hospital costs $1.8 million A DAY to run, which is where groups like Tri Delta come in to help!

St. Jude

 

 

 

 

 

I got to share this trip with two familiar faces to the blog – Torie and Ashley! We were all in the same tour group at the hospital, where we learned about what the hospital does for these families and how our partnership has an impact on their daily work. Along with my take of the trip, I also wanted to share Torie and Ashley’s perspectives as well.

Tri Delta

 

Torie said, “Going to St Jude Children Research Hospital with 50 of my sisters was an experience I will never forget. It was an opportunity for each of us to see the true impact of our efforts. They do matter.”

 

AshleyThis trip also meant a lot to Ashley. She said, “Because cancer has played a major role in my family’s life, I was deeply moved during our tour of the St. Jude campus. As we walked down the halls of the hospital, there were so many signs of life. Kids were running down the halls, walls were adorned with colorful drawings and the staff was so welcoming. You could see determination and joy in the children’s faces and the overwhelming peace in each parent’s eyes. St. Jude was a life-changing experience for me. It reminds me of the wonderful opportunity I have of giving back to an organization that has helped so many people. As I mentioned before, cancer has definitely played a prominent role in my life. My dad is a three-time cancer survivor. Times were very tough for our family, and it was sometimes difficult to get through the day. However, one can only imagine going through that treatment at a young age. It is comforting to know that there is a place where sick kids can get cancer treatment free of charge and the where parents can have a peace of mind. All in all, my time at St. Jude Research Hospital was filled with tears, laughter and joy. It reminded me that Christ is the ultimate healer.”

For me, this trip reminded me of what a meaningful partnership we share with women across the nation, united in this one cause. We met a group of seniors from the chapter at Illinois State University while touring, and they are incredible women! It’s humbling to remember that what we do as a chapter is a small part of the bigger picture of Tri Delta’s national contribution. We don’t just raise money to build a building or to have our letters put on the wall. We are giving families and children hope – now and in the future. While at the hospital, we visited the bone marrow center, which our donations helped build. We heard a story about a mom who asked the receptions to convey her gratitude to every Tri Delta who walked through the doors. Her genuine thankfulness brought me to tears.

If you would like to find out more about our partnership with St. Jude or the amazing work the hospital does, feel free to check out stjude.org/tridelta.

Delta

Bringing the Bling

Posted on by
Reply

By Ashley Woo

This past weekend, the Baylor football team debuted a new set of uniforms including the new SUPER GOLD helmet that created so much buzz during the Big 12 media days in a campaign they dubbed #BringtheBling. In fact, this helmet can not only be used to protect the head, but also I presume that when the sun hits the helmet at the right angle, it can be a dangerous thing for the opposing team’s eyes.

Putting the helmet aside, I believe that every Baylor Bear knows that this “Bring the Bling” campaign has a much deeper connotation than wearing shiny things to look pretty when playing football. No matter if it is winning the Big 12 Championship or appearing in bowl game (BSC National Championship?!), Baylor’s vision has moved far beyond past goals of just wanting to be taken seriously by Big 12 counterparts. This is not meant to be taken as arrogant, but rather, as a testament to what Baylor was and what it has become.

During the Baylor vs. Buffalo game, I was given the opportunity to serve concessions to some alumni in the Galloway Suites with my sorority. At one point during the game, I was conversing with an older gentleman who had brought his grandchildren to the game. I will never forget what he told his granddaughter and me, “You are so lucky to be going to Baylor at this moment. Back when I was a student here, going to a bowl game was never in our sights. We counted every win as a big blessing and were petrified when our Big 12 neighbors rolled into town. No one could have guessed the success that Baylor has seen in the past couple years. It’s a great day to be a Baylor Bear.”

I second that. Just look at all these trophies the athletics department won in a SINGLE YEAR. We are clearly well-rounded here at Baylor.

Trophies

 

 

 

 

 

 

With the way that the Baylor football team is taking care of business on the field and the direction that the whole Baylor Athletics department is headed, the athletics at Baylor is truly here to stay (Major snaps to Ian McCaw, Director of Athletics). Let me state the obvious: As a student, it is fun rooting for a team that consistently wins. It is fun talking to your friends about football when you know your school is ranked higher. As the football team has shown in the past couple weeks, they know how to win. And win BIG.

So let me end with this:

It is a great day to be a Baylor Bear because we are “Bringing the Bling” home.