I think in general everyone can agree that college changes who you are as a person in one way or another, whether that way is small or large, a matter of a new habit or a complete change of character, you are changed. I look back fondly on my first semester of college because I feel like that’s when I truly met myself.

Maybe it was being suddenly “on my own” and the dizzying independence I suddenly had, maybe it was the opportunities laid at my doorstep waiting for me to take them and run, or perhaps it was that I was finally mature enough to see my flaws and accept them. Most likely it’s all of that and more. I think college is so vital, not only for the essential education in today’s increasingly competitive workplace, but also for the varied and challenging experiences you have. I was exposed to living with people from different backgrounds and making different personalities work together, I was able to make friends with people who had a completely different upbringing than I did, and I discovered some of the most valuable things about myself and others.

One of the craziest things about college was that I did meet myself there. I found out that I was more comfortable with myself than a lot of other people were with themselves, and how much I took that for granted. I discovered that the source of my strength came from having a solid support system and a belief that I truly mattered in this universe, that I had something to give. I found out that I’m uncomfortable with, but good at, social interactions and making other people feel comfortable and accepted. I thrive on other people’s happiness and I will go out of my way to make someone feel cared for and important if I see a need for it. I also found that I need someone to listen to me, and when I don’t get that I get lonely and depressed. I learned that my love for beef flavored Top Ramen knows no limits, and Martinelli’s is worth it when you’re having a bad day. I found out that I rely very heavily on specific individuals in my life, I place all of my trust and hope and belief in them, and when they disappoint me I’m devastated. I found out that I’m bad at communicating my feelings verbally and that I get uncomfortable expressing serious emotion to more than one person at a time.

I learned that I had it really easy in high school and that college was going to require more of me than a passive interest. I had to want it if I was going to succeed. So I learned how to dig deep and really fight for something. The craziest part was learning that the major opponent I had to my own success was myself.

I’m happy to have learned so much in my time as a college student, and it excites me for what the future may hold. Every day is a new opportunity to learn and grow and become a better version of myself.