Tap In Fall 2016

by Masha Aseeva

On Wednesday, September 21, 2016, the Fall 2016 weenie class of Texas Spirits was tapped in. Little did they know, their lives just changed in the most positive and transformative way. Just a year before, I was tapped in to Texas Spirits in the Fall '15 weenie class. Tap In is a small part of the scope of traditions that date back 75 years, but it's definitely a great start. That day, I encountered 25 other girls that would end up shaping my life, be it a small prod into my character or a robust squeeze that altered my form forever. 25 strangers, 25 doors that hadn't been opened yet were beckoning me to come closer. In fact, there weren't 25- there were over 100 open doors of others who had been chosen just like me. The value of Tap In, and the organization in general, is that we select Spirits and what Spirits represents; we select ourselves. The scarf represents more than an outfit upgrade, or even Longhorn spirit (though we do it best). It represents game-changers. Girls that will change the world, that go the extra mile, that will support you in your hardest times. If it seems like most people are surface level, you won't find that in Spirits. We're definitely adept at small talk, but there is a deep passion and connection in what we talk about. The things that give life spark and vigor are in these girls. 

Masha at Fall 2015 Tap-In

Last year, after being flooded with information and tasks on what I would have to do at the onset of Weenie semester, I went to a Ratatat concert, alone, and danced my heinie off despite everything else looming over me. Spirits has been and always will be a support system; not something to sacrifice myself for, but rather a method to truly find and cultivate my own uniquity. The support and community that I found on that first day was so uplifting, and I was thriving off of it. A year later, right after Tap In Fall 2016, I went to a Beirut concert by myself. I danced through any pain of running around all day, but most importantly, I was secure in myself. Nothing had changed, yet so much also did. I still love music so much to go to shows alone. But now, throughout my waking world, I feel the support that Spirits has given me. I've only known Fall '15 for a year! A year of friendship. So short, yet so full. I cannot imagine what another year will bring. I cannot understate the value of community; the support that comes with knowing that you are loved no matter what, that you are a part of something bigger. That you are here to be YOU, and nobody else. Also, a weenie from the Fall '16 class was at the show as well (arrived alone but found people) and I had no idea! 

You are comprised of who you surround yourself with. In this sense, you must choose wisely. Be strong in your convictions and passions, for they make you who you are. You never know, those ideals might just make you a Spirit. #unapologeticallyYourself