The hardest part about saying goodbye to freshman year is that I feel as though my hello was too short- this year flew by.

I remember the excitement/nervousness/anxiety I felt first coming to UM. I didn't know anyone; I had to share a shoe box with someone I barely knew; I signed up for classes I didn't really have experience with. On top of that, I was on my own, not thrown into the real world, but a close step towards it. Yet it excited me.

I've been told that "college will change you." I wanted this to be true. I wanted to learn more about myself, sort of find my way and become a better version of myself, constantly adapting and growing. And I did.

I dealt with a lot of challenges throughout my college experience so far. I switched roommates, I was unsure of what I wanted to major in, and I had trouble understanding college boys. Some days I couldn't take it and it was frustrating, but because of this college made me stronger and gave me a great support system so I was able to power through.

I'm happy to say I've made lots of great friends and met so many wonderful people. I discovered many new places and opportunities just in these 8 months alone.

As I'm writing this, I'm beginning to pack- beginning to take down all the memories I've made this year. The photographs on my wall, the signs my big made for me, the menus I've kept from restaurants I discovered in Miami. All these little things I'm sad to leave. It's hard to pack away a life that you just started living- especially one that you love too much to say goodbye to.

But it's okay, because in a few short months I'll be back in my second home. I'm happy for all the fun memories I've made, the late nights, the adventurous days, the boring days, all of it.

Unsurprisingly enough, college did change me. The Danielle now is not the Danielle 8 months ago or the Danielle in freshman year of high school. I finally discovered more about myself, who I want to surround myself with, and my strengths/weaknesses.

I will forever miss Miami's constant sunshine and the people I've met. I might even miss my shoe box of a dorm (a little). But it's not a goodbye. It's a see you later.