Murfreesboro, TN - Buckle up, future Blue Raiders—MTSU is about to welcome some serious talent! Leading the charge into the Class of 2029 is none other than Mt. Juliet Christian Academy valedictorian Abigail Whicker, a powerhouse of ambition, academia, and agriculture. With an impressive 4.0 GPA, a herd of 30 to 40 sheep, and a knack for delivering award-winning speeches from memory, Whicker is bringing her A-game to Middle Tennessee State University this fall.

Not only does she arrive with 30 dual enrollment credit hours from Carson-Newman, Trevecca Nazarene, and MTSU itself, but she also brings a collection of scholarships so hefty it could rival her livestock. With funds from the MTSU Trustee Scholarship, Hope Lottery Scholarship, Merit awards, American Legion Oratorical honors, and more, she’s set to cover her entire college journey without a hitch.

Whicker, who plans to study agribusiness and organizational communications, says choosing MTSU felt like fate. “I kept coming back to MTSU,” she admits, likely because she’s spent half her life at the Tennessee Livestock Center for competitions and events. She’ll follow in the footsteps of her older sister, Jessica Whicker, a rising senior in equine science. “I want to pursue my degree and continue judging horses,” she says—because college isn’t just about hitting the books; it’s about perfecting the art of horse judging, obviously.

New to Blue Orientation—formerly CUSTOMS—is in full swing, helping incoming students navigate their new stomping grounds. Director Gina Poff reports the first sessions “went great” and promises the same warm welcome for all attendees. “Students will learn their way around campus, interact with fellow Blue Raiders, try out our dining facilities, meet their academic advisor, and register for classes,” Poff explains. Essentially, it’s MTSU’s way of making sure no one walks into their first class completely lost.

Also joining the flock are future psychology major Sadiyah Little, who was drawn to MTSU’s strong psych program (and lovely campus), and video/film production hopeful Justin Thompson, who’s excited to dive into the university’s robust media arts resources. With scholarships, ambitions, and a bit of high school experience under their belts, they’re ready to make their mark.

Upcoming New to Blue Orientation dates include May 30, June 3, and June 5. Transfer student orientations will be held on June 9 (virtual) and June 27 (in person). For more details and registration, visit MTSU Orientation.

So, freshmen, get ready—MTSU is waiting, and it’s going to be one unforgettable ride!