I have learned throughout high school and my first year in college that you only have yourself to fall back on. Of course, there are friends and family to support you, but you are the one making decisions for yourself. Growing up I always imagined living in an extravagant home with my cars parked all clean and nice in front. I imagined having the perfect job that would make more than enough money, and to do it all alone. As I started living by myself, I realized how empowering it is to make your own choices and be accountable for your actions. College has taught me that my independence means more than just doing the right thing; it means staying focused to achieve your dreams.

Most college students are in it for the long run. We are motivated and driven. We want to grow as a person and move on to bigger things after graduation. We all want to achieve some level of success and happiness, so we do everything in our power to make the best life for ourselves. Along the way, we start taking chances by setting ridiculous goals for ourselves. Which can be very satisfying. Sometimes we set the bar too high, and sometimes we set the bar too low. It's all about balance, though. Being independent means living comfortably, but also taking the appropriate amount of risks. Leaving to go college was gut wrenching. The thought that you can no longer fall back on your parents is nerve-racking, but every student will overcome it. There will be days when you need more help than others, and there will be times when you feel on top of the world. The harder days are the ones you grow from. I have not loved every single day of school, in fact, there were times I wanted to go home. But, those were the times I grew as an individual. Later on, I looked back and felt so pleased I didn't give up because it forced me to adjust to something more challenging.

The most important thing I have learned as a student thus far, is learning to be content with everything going on in your life. Whether that is school work, sports, clubs or even relationships. You will get something new thrown at you every day, but it's nothing you can't handle. Being independent means stepping out of your comfort zone, which will make you thrive later on. Independence for me personally meant succeeding without parental supervision and starting new things alone. I no longer needed as much approval from others; it was my chance to test the waters.

Actions do speak louder than words. Saying you'll accomplish something new means nothing if you don't execute the plan. There have been goals I've set that are never touched because I feel they are out of my comfort zone. So instead I stay where I am without change because I have the fear of rejection. As I started college I came to the realization that it was impossible to avoid. Every day was something different: the classes I was taking, the friends I was making, the new routines I got myself into. Being a college student has brought many new experiences into my life but the one I value the most is learning to be more independent.

You live one life, and it is short. There isn't time to be a follower. There isn't time to live vicariously. So start doing things for yourself, experience more, and do the unimaginable. For me, it didn't come easily. I had my moments when I wanted nothing to change. I'm sure you thought the same. You live and you learn, and throughout the process, it makes you a stronger person.