Five years.

It has been five years since I started college, and within those five years, I've experienced more changes and adventures than one may experience in high school. I went into college with a very strict plan as to how my life would go; I was very sure of myself, turns out, I wasn't very sure at all. Through the literature classes and friends I've made, it has led me to this final moment in my college career:

As a human being, I will never be quite entirely sure of myself, maybe that has been the lesson college was supposed to teach me.

I came into college never wanting to raise my hand because I was too scared to be wrong or look stupid, but now I compete with other students to answer the questions first. I have become more and more eager to learn with every literature class to explore the purpose of truth, the ability to see things in a new light. Yet, though my time in school is ticking and running out of time, I don't want to leave; this is a time where I am learning that no matter if I'm in school or not, my learning will never be done.

As I came into my senior year, like every other college student, I heard the question:

"What are you going to do with that degree?"

Well here's my answer:

I want to teach English, but I also love teaching dance and choreographing while I completely adore the job that I have now and I want to write one day while owning a business....that's what I want to do in life--everything!

(Yes, I said that just as quickly, verbally)

As my last semester begins, every day I panic more and more as to the fear arises that I might fail at life...but I won't, want to know why?

Because the semester has barely started and I'm going to enjoy my time!

That is the biggest mistake I feel students make, they're so worried about the future they lose out on the time that is left. Us seniors only have one semester left, about five months to enjoy living in dorms, partying and having a good time with our friends. These final months are what are left to be the young adults we are. Yes, we need to be concerned for our future and we want to make sure we are successful, but also, we cannot let it blind us from what is in front of us.

Maybe one day:

I will teach high school English

I will become a world famous choreographer

I will continue to excel at the job I completely adore

I will publish the next "Great American" novel

I will own a series of businesses

or I will do it all

That is what college has taught me. My professors not only opened my eyes to the beautiful nature of literature, but also has allowed me to become more comfortable in my own integrity. The true meaning of college is not only self-discovery but that we are never going to be fully sure of our future, and that is okay!

So while some students freak out, I am going to enjoy being cheer and dance team captain and enjoy the classes I have left.

May my last semester be filled with enjoyment and opportunities!