College is often viewed as a new beginning. Recent graduates are worried about what they should do and how they should act. I started school with no idea of what to expect, but I was completely open-minded. College has been one of the hardest, longest, yet most rewarding experiences of my life. Here are some of the reasons why my college experience has been life-changing.

1. Defeat

Your freshman year will provide many opportunities to try out for new things. Personally, student government was my number one goal. I ran for freshmen senator, and came nowhere near winning. In the moment, I felt defeated and did not know if I should continue applying for different organizations. One of the girls who beat me was in similar organizations and in the same department, so she was a constant reminder of my failure. I never thought that she would become one of my best friends.

2. Branching Out

In high school, I was that shy student who was very involved. I had the same set of friends from freshmen year through graduation. I was content and that was all that mattered. When I started college, my friends and I were not together as much as I was used to. I felt alone and just did not know where to start branching out. I joined Leadership Council and became really close to some other people who went to high school with me. I took full advantage of every opportunity that crossed my path. Some things worked out more than others, but I never stopped. I applied to become an Orientation Leader, and was selected as part of the 2015 team. I never envisioned myself as someone to give campus tours and be school spirited; but I knew I would give it my best.

3. Meeting New People

Transitioning from that shy person in high school to whom I have become today has been amazing. I am not afraid to try new things, meet strangers, or dance in front of thousands of people in another state. The memories I have made with the 23 of my closest friends will last a lifetime. Because I was able to branch out and take that leap into the unknown, my life completely changed.

4. Finding Out Who I Am

My college experience has definitely been a roller coaster. Struggling with grades, working almost full-time, and contemplating dropping out have all been problems that I have faced. These opportunities have taught me that I am in control of my life. With the help of my family and friends, I can accomplish anything. I have realized who I am not; but I am still working on who I am. Each experience in my life has taught me something about myself as well as others.