Dear Me,
It’s strange to think how different we are. It’s crazy to see how much difference one year makes. At this time last year, you were probably studying and panicking about finals. You were optimistic about the future and ready to take Bradley University by storm, but weren't quite sure where to channel all your energy. If I could go back and tell you one thing, I’d tell you to not sweat the small stuff. You will grow, change, and face new challenges that you probably never expected. But the good news is that it’ll only make you stronger in the end. Little did you know that you were about to embark on the greatest journey of your life so far.
I’m so glad that you decided to channel your energy into your passions, your schoolwork, and your sorority. This decision has helped you find yourself and make friendships that will last a lifetime. Your dedication to your friends is one of the things that I love the most about you. Never stop going out of your way to make someone’s day. Little acts of kindness go a long way. There's nothing like a Dunkin iced coffee delivery to a friend to cheer her up, or a long late night chat with your best friends. Please don’t ever forget to enjoy the little things in life.
Another piece of advice I want to give you is to be fearless. Say "yes" to everything, even if it scares you. You’ll be better for it. You’ll open up to people you never thought you would and try things you never thought you’d try. This will help you learn to see things from others’ point of view and gain new perspective on different situations. This will ultimately make you stronger and give you some great memories you’ll tell your kids someday. My decision to go through the rush process scared me. I had no idea what to expect. I didn't know it then, but it'd be the best decision I've ever made. I have no idea what my life would be like if I hadn't taken that chance.
You’ll also go through hardships. You’ll make mistakes and so will your friends. You'll learn to tackle your mistakes head on and apologize. Remember that apologizing is a strength, not a weakness. Some people who are close to you may hurt you along the way, but you’ll learn to forgive and forget. You’ll also hear tough news that will scare you to death. Have a little faith in the ones you love and yourself and all of your problems won’t seem as big anymore. Learn to know that it’ll all work out the way it’s supposed to and fall into place. Remember to let go of what you can’t control.
As a sophomore in college, I’ve already learned so much. I’ve taken on new leadership roles, internships, and job opportunities. I’ve developed my professional skills through these experiences. As a Freshman, you are nervous to take on these new challenges, but so excited to learn and become more independent and mature.
In all honesty, these challenges will test you and push you to your limits. You’ll feel stressed, anxious, and maybe even ask yourself, “Can I really balance it all?”
You can. You can do anything you set your mind to. You’re so much stronger than you think. The biggest advice that I can give you is to know that you have so much more to learn. Stay humble and driven. Stay curious and optimistic. Never lose sight of who you are or compromise your beliefs, because that’s what makes you, you. Most of all, stay excited. You have two more years to make the most out of your college experience. Take advantage of every opportunity and have fun! You’ll never get this time back.
Sincerely,
An older, wiser you
