Before graduating as a part of Loyola University Maryland’s Class of 2018, I’ll have to make it through sophomore year. I'll be moving back to campus this week and the fall semester begins on August 31.
Since my sophomore year is right around the corner, I think that it's fitting to write about what I expect for myself throughout this year and for the years to follow. This upcoming year is going to be drastically different from my first year because there are higher expectations in place, especially because the success of my college experience and future depends on the decisions that I make from now on. I want my second year of college to be the time of my life, and I believe that it can be achieved through these expectations that I have for myself. For my sophomore year of college, and the years beyond, I expect myself to:
1. Make the most out of my time at LUM.
In order to do this I need to put unfavorable routines to the side and start engaging in beneficial ones.
2. End my procrastination habit.
Instead of waiting until the last minute, it's important for me to stay on top of my workload in order to prevent getting behind on my upcoming busy schedule. Procrastination leads to unnecessary stress, which no college student needs.
3. Branch out more and connect with people.
I have a habit of sticking with the same group of people no matter what. But this year I'm excited to meet new people and connect with those that I may not usually connect with. Even when it's uncomfortable or I don't feel the need to talk to a certain person, it's important that I get in the habit of engaging with the people around me because you never know when an opportunity is waiting.
4. Continue surrounding myself with genuine and uplifting people.
I spend a lot of time with my friends, and if they aren't helping me grow and I'm not doing the same for their lives then the relationship isn't working.
5. Allow my soul to grow in a nurturing way.
I believe that the key for myself to grow as a person in a healthy way begins with continuously believing in myself and my abilities. I'm always my biggest critic but I'm also my biggest cheerleader at times. Therefore, keeping a balance between critic and cheerleader is important throughout this year.
6. Appreciate the life that I've been given.
I should never forget that I'm blessed with opportunities that many people don't have access to.
7. Thank my parents for their sacrifices, even more than I did last year.
Another year of school means another year of endless expenses and missing their baby girl. Although I'm becoming an independent young adult, I still need to remember to thank my parents for everything that they've done to get me this far. Their support, sacrifices, and most importantly love has helped me become the young lady that I am today and I couldn't thank them enough, but I'll try anyway!
8. Keep my life goals in perspective and take the necessary risks to get there.
I'm very comfortable living in my comfort zone, as are many people. But more times than not, it's more beneficial to take the important risks rather than stay in a bubble of comfort. In the past, I've acted as if the no's in my life are detrimental setbacks when they are actually opportunities to keep working even harder to achieve my goals.
My plan for sophomore year is to seriously begin working toward what I desire out of life, career and social wise. I plan on continuing to work hard with my schoolwork, while also making the most out of this time with my friends. I hope to fulfill all of my expectations for this year, and many more that I'll probably think of after writing this!
