I am nearing the end of my first term of my sophomore year of college. Something about the end of a term makes me reflective of my time in college. I do not know if I am more nostalgic than I realize or if I am simply searching for a light at the end of the tunnel as finals week approaches. Regardless, I can confidently say that I am immensely happier, confident, and at home now than I was this time last year.

My freshmen year was difficult for me. I had just moved 2,618 miles from my hometown of Gainesville, Georgia to go to school in Eugene, Oregon. I was so unsure of myself for the first several months. I took me some time before I found the people that made this place my adoptive home. Thanks to them, I am more myself than I have ever been. Many of these people also felt alone when they first moved here. Together, we have made ourselves our own family that pushes every member to be kinder, harder working, and open.

I asked each of them to offer some advice to their past selves at this time last year. Here are their responses:

Alex

"I think what has made me better has been surrounding myself with people who let me be my genuine self. Choosing to come here and embracing the differences of college, young adulthood, etc., has made me realize who I am as a person is not weird or unworthy of friends. Everyone is worthy, they just have to find a place that embraces them best."

Kerenza

"It's okay to not feel certain all the time. Just put yourself out there and you'll be surprised how well everything works out."

Scott

"When figuring out what makes you happy in life, don't overthink it and don't expect it to be an instant thing. It takes time to figure out your passion and what you want to dedicate your life to moving forward. The only way you will truly feel fulfilled is if you give back by helping others in some way."

Norah

"I would tell my past self to take a second and breathe. Life can be very stressful and emotional, but you have to remember to breathe and tell yourself that the things that are weighing you down right now and making life seem unbearable will be distant memories soon. So breather and remember how amazing life it."

Tanner

"Change isn't scary, it's just different. So relax."

Anushka

"Don't give into the pressures of college life (sex, partying, drinking, etc.) because if that's not what works for you, you're going to damage what was once really you."

Hayley

"Get out of your own head and stop worrying what people from your past may think about you. It's ok to let go. In fact, you should. Have fun, have so much fun! You will graduate so get it out of your mind that you're not intelligent enough to be here. You got into a very competitive program and you've stayed in. Be proud, let go, and have the best f*cking time."

Madeline (Me)

"Life has been changing pretty rapidly and, right now, it might seem too fast. If you let go of some of your doubts and worries, the world will open up for you. Life and college can be exactly how you envisioned it; you just have to make it happen for yourself."