As the school year begins and we settle into our rigorous schedules, we often come to a crossroad. The idea of a new beginning creates a mental block for most and keeps many of us from comfortably transitioning ourselves into a new year.

We overthink until we're mentally exhausted and trap ourselves in the tiny, smothering dorm we call home. The scariest part of the day is entering a new classroom and sitting next to an unfamiliar face. You ponder over the many small-talk conversation starters you could introduce and how you should introduce yourself without seeming strange. The unfamiliarity genuinely strangles you and holds you back from ever feeling the subtle glimpse of coziness. You add onto the ever-so piling stress of schoolwork and introduce a new wrinkle-former caused by this hold the unfamiliarity has on you.

This is a reminder that you aren't in the chokehold your mind has envisioned. You can breathe as deeply and freely as you please. There are no indestructible shackles holding you from growth. Your mind is tricking you and making you feel unable to add new individuals into your catalog.

This is a reminder that the only thing holding you back are your own insecurities. You are not weird. You are not boring. You are as interesting as every other person you come across and you have stories which need to be shared. You have friends waiting to be made and groups ready to welcome you with open arms.

The world is your own. It is waiting for your influence and your impact.

Join clubs and explore what your campus has waiting for you. There is a spot specifically crafted for you no matter where you've landed. Check out the BSU or the Poetry Club or join a sorority. Life is all about interaction and you're only five or so words away from making a life-impacting interaction when you simply introduce yourself.

The person next to you in Biology is just as scared as you are, and this is your reminder to let them know what you now know through positive interaction and kind words. That person next to you could be your best friend, your future roommate, or your intermural tennis teammate. Give them a chance regardless of whether they've attempted to give you one. Maybe no one gave them this reminder.

I know you're scared. I know it's tough. I know you feel insecure. However, remember the strong, beautiful person you are. Remember how worthy you truly are. Remember that no other person is better than you and everyone was made equally. Step out into the world filled with opportunities hand-sewn for you.