Starting my freshman year in college, I was ready for all that was to come my way. I was able to grow as an individual by learning more about myself. Made memories to last a lifetime and friends that will be with me forever. Now that my first semester is behind me, I would like to share some of the most important things I learned during these first few months.

• 1.There truly is no place like home.
• While in high school I always talked about how ready I was to move out. Although when the day came, I was scared as to what was before me. I wasn't ready to leave behind what I had been accustomed to. Although, I quickly learned all that I left behind wouldn't leave me. I came home to my loving family and friends excited to embrace me, and hear the stories I had to share. I learned to appreciate my home more. Keith Urban says, "There's nothing in the world that feels like coming home" and I couldn't agree more.

• 2.Friends are EVERYTHING.
• The transition into college wasn't as smooth as I had hoped it be. I was prepared academically, but struggled to find where I belonged. I eventually bonded with my roommate and met a friend of hers, and now they are both my best friends at school. They have made things so much easier for me, and are a light in my life brining so much joy into each day. I know they will be behind me no matter what, and that brings so much comfort to my soul. My old friends have also been so supportive. Facetime calls, or meeting up always makes it feel like old times.

• 3.I remembered how passionate I was about dance.
• Leaving behind my home studio was the hardest thing I have ever had to do. Not dancing and teaching everyday was challenging for me. Not seeing my smiling students, fellow dancers, teachers, and parents was upsetting. I was not as busy during the day at college, and realized how much I missed the sport that I loved. I have finally found my calling, to teach dance, and I hope to be able to do that one-day along with being a news anchor. I plan to minor in private studio teaching, which will allow me to continue sharing my love of dance with others.

• 4.Nap time is the best time of the day.
• I have always been a big fan of naps. I usually don't sleep a lot at night. (I know that's terrible) So I make up for lost time or if I am just tired from a long day with a big, fat nap. Naps will become your bff in college, trust me.

• 5.Always take pictures.
• I want to remember these "best years of my life", forever. My friends and I are always taking a quick selfie just to remember the moment. I am planning on making a scrapbook at the end of the year to have a collection of pictures.

• 6.Late night snacks with friends come in clutch.
• The munchies hit me hard some nights when I am up late studying. Going to get a snack from Cookout late at night cures my munchies and also brings lots of laughs to help forget the pain of studying.

• 7.Class rank isn't a big deal.
• I came to Meredith thinking that I was going to be at the bottom of the chain, which I am, but it doesn't really make a difference. I don't even know who is a senior or freshman, unless I personally know the girl. Although, when it comes to cornhusking' (a Meredith College tradition) class rank 100% matters.

• 8.I have introduced myself more times than I can count.
• I have met so many people, and shook more hands than I can remember. BUT don't get me wrong… I loved it! I love meeting new people and creating more relationships. It also is good practice for this pageant girl.

• 9.Freshman 15 is real.
• I really don't think I have gained 15 pounds… maybe a few but not 15. Not being able to dance everyday has really hurt me. Luckily I have had a dance class at Meredith to help keep me in shape. The weight will creep on you, so trying to eat healthy is a struggle but it is very important.

• 10. You can't trust everyone.
• I am just going to leave it with that statement. It is the harsh truth.

• Lastly…

• 11. Family matters most.
• I have leaned of my family so much during this huge transition. I always knew they were there for me, but I now know that they are truly always behind me 100% of the time. I call them so much just to ask what was for supper, or to tell them what I did today. Just because I miss them. Especially my mama and grandma. They are still my #1 girls forever! This also applies to my friends who are my family, just not by blood. I am thankful to all my supporters, and love them more than they will ever know.

• I have learned many more things than what I have shared. My first semester was an eye opener full of so much opportunity. I can't wait to see and share all the lessons and memories that will come in my spring semester.

• "The capacity to learn is a gift; the ability to learn is a skill; the willingness to learn is a choice." –Brian Herbert