My first year of college taught me a lot of things, some of which I was expecting to learn and others that I was not. College was a very beneficial experience for me in many ways and I feel that it helped me grow as a person. I have learned things that would've otherwise not come to my attention for a while. I feel better prepared for the future, and have a better outlook on what I'm doing. Here are some things that my first year of college taught me:

1. Independence

Well, maybe not whatever I want, but it definitely feels that way. College helped me gain a sense of independence, and I now feel that I don't need to rely on someone else for everything. I can survive on my own for a while. I can make my own decisions and I'll be okay. This is my first step to learning how to be a proper adult, and so far it's working out.

2. Try New Things

Up to this point in my life, I have never really been open to trying new things. I didn't like it and it didn't seem fun to me. I would do all I can to avoid trying new things and sticking with the same routine I had. Now, I don't necessarily try crazy things, but I have done many things I wouldn't imagine myself enjoying. I never really had a huge interest in beaches, but I visited quite a few beaches in my second semester of college and it changed my view on beaches. I now enjoy visiting them and view them as a very relaxing place. I also never really enjoyed visiting tourist attractions before because I didn't like feeling like a tourist in my own state. But, that has changed as well. I visited a few beautiful lighthouses, and it was incredible to see. These new experiences have really opened my mind up to new things and given me new places to go and just enjoy myself. Trying new things has also helped me figure out what I'm really interested in. I've found new interests and hobbies that I never thought I'd have. I'm glad that I've found these new interests, and I can't wait to continue to find out more about myself.

3. Be Yourself

This past year has really helped me grow more comfortable with myself and who I am. I worry less about what others think about me and more about what I want to do and what I enjoy doing. I don't need the approval of others to make me happy, I just need to do what I have fun doing. All that matters is how I feel about myself, and everyone else will just have to deal with it. It's a process that my first year of college has really helped me start and will help me continue and progress with throughout the rest of my time here.

4. It's Okay To Get Help If You Need It

In high school, if you needed a tutor, it was hard to find one. They don't have them readily available for you, and teachers don't usually have much free time to help. This often can lead to high school students thinking they're stupid for needing help, because the option isn't advertised and it seems like nobody needs help. In college, they encourage you to meet with a tutor even if you feel like you just need help with one problem or need some revisions. They tell you how to get in contact with the tutors and when they're available. It makes the whole process more welcoming and more comfortable. I haven't used it yet, but it's helpful to know that it's there and easy to access.

5. Communication Is Key

Being around a group of people all of the time can be difficult sometimes. If you're not used to it, it can take some time to get used to it. If you're angry, there isn't much room to be alone and figure it out yourself. So, it's best to talk to someone about what's bothering you before it becomes a bigger problem. I've learned that this is the easiest way to keep things under control and avoid miscommunication. Miscommunication can throw everything off balance, and that just adds unnecessary stress to your life. So, talk it out.

These are all things that college taught me throughout this past year. I learned a lot about myself and a lot of important life lessons. These are just a few of the most beneficial things I have learned or gained. I look forward to learning more about myself and learning more things about life in general in the years to come.