Change, as defined by Merriam-Webster, means, “to give a different position, course, or direction to.” The definition gives off a negative connotation, but change isn’t necessarily a bad thing. People can change for the better, you can change your major, or of course you could change the athletic staff of UF. Regardless of the outcome, change can become a positive.
For the first example of change, let’s look at our change of coaches for both the UF Basketball and Football team. With Donovan heading to Oklahoma City (OKC), and the firing of Muschamp, our sports teams are seeing new faces this season. However, this example of change could be hope for optimism. The Gator Football team selected the new head coach to be McElwain, and with him came a ton of potential. In his immediate selection, McElwain obtained many recruits, and he and Shannon pulled many players away from the University of Miami, as well. McElwain brings a different approach to college football than that of Muschamp, and I am hoping that is going to be a great change. As for basketball, our new coach is Michael White, who may not be able to fill the shoes of Donovan, but will certainly have an impact on this upcoming year.
The next example of change is changing your major. At a student in a very prestigious school, we have the ability to study a vast variety of subjects that other schools may not offer. As a Junior, I have changed my major at least 3 times. It’s part of college, and change could be a good thing. I realized I was not fit to study medicine, and here I am now changing to become a lawyer. I enjoy writing more so than I enjoyed any science class, and for that reason, I realized how important change was. You have to love what you do, and I think I have finally achieved that.
People change; that is a universal fact. Friends you may have had in high school could move on as they adapt and meet new friends in college. The other option is that you all change together, and remain friends throughout your separate journeys. However, change again isn’t negative. Expanding your horizons and meeting new friends only leads to more opportunities in the future. That one friend you made in history class could be the next CEO of the company you’re dying to work for. The lesson to be learned is that you can’t burn your bridges.
Regardless of the change around you, don’t be afraid to embrace it. Personally, I’ve seen a lot of change this year, and it has only panned out for the better. Everything is looking up, and I can honestly say I am happy with where I am at this point in my life. I’ve changed my major to do something I have a passion for, met a lot of great friends through my two years, and have made an impact on campus. I hope you all find the change that works best for you, and brings you joy as well.
