And here we are.

The last week of freshman year is upon me. As I head towards finals, I think back on who I've become since move-in in August; the decisions I've made (both good and bad), the people I've met, the places I've gone. I've joined a newspaper, taken photos that have been published, switched my major, and met some of the best people I think I will ever meet.

And so I think, what has this taught me?

Well, for starters, I've learned that I can write a paper the day it's due and still get an A (sorry mom and dad). I've learned how to survive off one meal a day when necessary, how to avoid people while I have headphones in, and how to stand up for myself.

I've had my very first all-nighter, a meltdown over InDesign crashing for the third time in one night, watched my friends grow as people, and I've been lucky enough to watch my best friends fall in love. I've comforted friends through heartache, and cried to them as well. I've bonded with people I never thought I'd talk to, and learned I can count on people other than myself.

Of course, I'm glad to be going home; I've missed my parents, my sister, my dog -- and if we're honest, specifically my cat. I look forward to spending time with one of my favorite people over the summer, and not having too much classwork to even think.

But I spent so many years looking forward to this moment. Well, actually, to the moment I moved into my dorm room. And now that moment has come and gone, and it all feels pretty surreal. I'm an adult. I turn 19 in a month, and fast approaching is my sister's graduation from high school. Her first prom is just around the corner, and I'm lucky to say I'll be able to see her that day.

Growing up has been an experience. While I had freedom in high school, this year I've had to be my own parent, for myself, and I've seen the good ends and bad ends of this freedom affect people I love dearly. I'm thankful for the moments I've had to look at myself and say "you know, you absolutely rock." I've kicked myself to the curb multiple times for stupid decisions, but I've also learned that you can't be too hard on yourself. You need to learn from your mistakes, not let them drown you.

And yet, I still feel a little lost.

Of course, I know I'm not supposed to have a concrete idea of who I am yet. I'm supposed to question every decision I make, ask myself where it will bring me in the future. I guess I'm just supposed to wait.

And so I look forward to what my sophomore year will bring me. I'm a section editor for the school's newspaper, have a kick-ass co-editor, and will be a Wet Feet Retreat and Black and Gold Beginnings leader this year. I have so much to be thankful for, and so much to look forward to.

Remember that you should be your main priority. And while you should look out for those you love, your happiness and well-being should always come first.

Cheers to my first year of college. Thanks for being stellar.