During my first semester at Brown, I was looking for an activity that truly served as an exhilarating and fun break from the weekly workload. For me, Quidditch is that escape. While I had never played before, I was an avid fan of the Potter series and the quirkiness of the sport spoke to me. Even at the first informal scrimmage, the upperclassmen were more than welcoming. They quickly showed me the ropes and accepted me as one of their own. Not only does Quidditch provide a unique form of exercise, but as a first year, the sport provided me with a tight group of peers. These friends helped greatly to make my transition into the college lifestyle a successful one. What I once considered a highly informal game is actually an organized and competitive pastime. My advice to you: whether you are a first-year (congratulations and welcome!) or a member of the community who has even a slight interest, TRY IT OUT! Once you get used to the pride of running around with a broom between your legs, you'll never go back!