Being away from home for long periods of time changes you as a person. Not only because you're forced to adapt to a new environment but also because it forces you to think and act differently now that you're on your own.
I've been in college for a little over a month and noticed that my energy, productivity, and happiness have all been affected. Luckily they're all positive changes!
Motivations and productivity
Like most, I worked a lot throughout my years of high school because I knew how important it was to do well and be prosperous in the future. That same mentality is present in college but amplified with parents and adults always talking up college and telling you how big of a deal it is. From all this, I couldn't help but have that "make-it-or-break-it" mentality.
But this actually helped me because it made me work more aggressively. I find myself getting my work done as soon as I get it, partly because I don't like things hanging over my head but also because I know that influx of work isn't gonna stop anytime soon.
In high school, I wasn't as proactive as I am now and would focus more on getting an assignment done for the sake of getting it done. The productivity was there but I wasn't fully satisfied with the work I would hand in like I am now.
My motivation and productivity levels have increased from staying busy but being with like-minded friends is what drives me further. We're all serious when it comes to our work and motivate each other to reach success.
Whenever I get frustrated on a redox equation or really don't feel like writing an essay on Antigone, I know that once I do, I'll thank myself for it tomorrow and years down the road.
Independence and responsibility
As much as my miss my family,their absence has taught me a lot about independence.
College has definitely kept me busy. The work piles up quickly, there are always tests around the corner, volunteering hours to fulfill, etc. It's a lot but I know that I have to keep up if I want to want to do well in and out of class. Having this mentality is just a part of college.
I have to be responsible for my own success and well-being as a college student. Whether I get sick or fall behind in classes, it's my duty to stay on track and take care of myself. Of course that doesn't mean that I don't have people around me that I can't rely on.
People and happiness
I've been telling people that the best thing about college is the people.
Whether it's in class, the dining hall, or a dorm, it's just great to be around others. Just talking to people makes me comfortable, keeps me going with my work, and gets me through the day. While high school offered this, I think that actually living with friends and coordinating all your plans with them is what makes it so much better.It's just a more special connection.
In turn, I've felt happier in this last month laughing, working, persevering, and celebrating with people I've become close with.
When being thrown into a new place with new people, you find yourself changing through different experiences. The workload, the friends, and the freedom of college have all contributed to my growth as a person and I look forward to the many experiences that are yet to come!
