I did it! I completed my first year of college. I imagine I speak for many college students around the world when I admit I am ecstatic for a break from academic work, the dorm rooms, and the dining hall food. Even more exciting than getting away from school is what I am getting to: home. I am ready to be around my family, sleep in my own room, see my cats, and enjoy all of the delights that come with summer.

When I came home, I was ready to reunite with my friends from high school immediately! I was done with school and I thought everyone else was, too. Unfortunately, not all of my friends were. I was ready to work right away, but I had to wait a week to get myself back on the schedule. I was ready to go to the pool and soak up the sun, but pools usually don't open until late May. So, I came home and had time to reflect on the year I had. More importantly, I had leisure time to prepare for the next few months: my first college summer.

As a college athlete, I have an expectation to stay fit through summer. I will spend time on the soccer field and take the time to get better. As a student, it will be beneficial for me to read over summer and keep up on the recent world events. As a poor college kid, it is advantageous to work, put a little money in my pocket, and splurge as I wish too. Furthermore, I feel it is important to use this summer to give my soul a boost.

I experienced major growth over my first year of college. It was a year full of 'new' things and sometimes I felt they required a 'new' me. I made many adjustments to get through my year, some I liked and some I did not. As I am home over summer, I want to evaluate those adjustments. I want to reconnect with myself and within the comfort of my hometown, I know I will be able to. In the same breath, I want to challenge myself to become comfortable with being uncomfortable. I will challenge myself to grow mentally in preparation for next year's adventures.

Over summer, I hope to have lunch dates with friends from high school who I have not spoken with since last summer. As we compare stories, I want to learn from their stories and trials. I want to travel and learn from experience and exposure. I want to read to gain experience from characters whom have gone places I have never been. I want to cling tight to my family, use their support, and learn from their wisdom. I want to become a better family member, a better friend, and a better friend to myself. Over the summer, as I feed my desire to grow, I believe I will do just that. After a year full of adjustment and change, it seems fit to continue growing.