College is a major milestone. Moving into a dorm, starting classes, and finding a place to fit in can be the most challenging and the most exciting time of your life. You can really find yourself in college if you open up and let yourself explore outside the box.
Here are five ways college can help you find yourself:
1. College will expose you to diversity.
Whether you come from a small town or a big city, college allows you to meet people with whom you would never come in contact otherwise. This will be a new experience, but it can help you realize where you belong, and you might be surprised in how your interests differ. Embrace people you don’t know and the way they live. Spend the weekend in a town you would have never visited and make an effort to understand the way of life there. Don’t hold back for fear of the things you don’t understand.
2. You will find people who share your interests.
Colleges have clubs and organizations for everyone. Even if you didn't fit in during high school, you will find people in college. There is always a group of people who share your interests and who can learn from the things you have to offer. If there is not a club for the things you are interested in, start one! Show people your talents and let other people learn from you. Don’t be afraid to share your passions and interests.
3. Knowledge is unlimited.
It is easy for you to sit in the back of the class, doodling and keeping your head down. However, you can gain a lot of insight on different subjects as well as make a good impression on your professor by speaking up and sharing your opinions. Do not be afraid of the wrong answer, and allow your opinions to change if you find other people perceive things differently than you. Never be afraid to expand your knowledge.
4. The opportunity to be independent will arise.
Take advantage of being on your own to learn how to manage money and cook your own food. No matter how easy it is to run to your parents with every problem you have, try and solve it on your own. You and your parents will be grateful in the long run. Being on your own can help you become independent and, in turn, help you grow in your abilities and your confidence. Even if you make a mistake, learn from it and keep moving. Don’t use failure as an excuse; make it motivation.
5. Organizations outside of your comfort zone will be available.
Taking a bold chance and joining an organization outside your comfort zone will never be an experience you regret. Whether it be a Greek letter organization or debate club, a group that pushes you to a place you’ve never been can help you discover a part of yourself you never knew existed. Take the risk that comes along with joining one of these and allow yourself to be discovered. Never miss the opportunities just outside of your daily norm.
College can help you grow, change, and find yourself if you allow it. So listen to Hilary Duff in "A Cinderella Story":
