Family plays an important role in all of our lives. Sometimes we learn valuable lessons from them that help us later in life. Here are 5 Ways My Family Prepared Me For College.

1. How to dream big.

"Dream big like your night outlives the sun."

I love to say,"Dream big like your night outlives the sun." I have dreamed big and I still am. Without my family supporting me I would be at Longwood University now as part of the music department. Thanks to my family I am on a journey to become a music teacher.

2. How to be thrifty.

It is no secret that college is expensive and being human we sometimes do not spend wisely. I learned from my family how to be thrifty and so far that has proven to be valuable in college. So, thank you family for showing me how to look for sales.

3. How to work hard.

I understand that in order to get where I want to be, I have to work hard. I must study, practice, and never give up. I have been fortunate enough to be surrounded by relatives to display diligence no matter their professions. This enables me to do the same with my education and hopefully in my future career.

4. How to relax.

If you work hard, you have to know when to relax and in college, there will a lot of hard work. I have a tendency to be very serious about everything I do. I will sit at a desk for hours studying or doing homework and I will not move until I am finished. So, I am lucky to have uncles that convince me to hang out with them and play games.

5. How to give everyone a chance.

It is important to be open and talk to people, especially in college. This is how you make new friends and find your niche in a strange new place. I thank my family for being open to everyone and encouraging me to be kind, even to the moat intimidating people.