As this school year draws to an end, many, many people are graduating high school and are preparing for their first year as college students this fall. As a graduating senior, it seems like an entire lifetime has passed since I was preparing for my very first year in college. Still, I remember how exciting it was to get ready for college. I had so many different plans and expectations about what my experience was like and where I would end up at the end of this journey. I had ideas about what my social circle would look like, what my professors and classes would be like, and who I would be.

While some of my expectations ended up being true, so much of my college experience has been unexpected and surprising, even for me. There were many times when I found myself surprised by where I was or what I was pursuing or excited about in my education.

While I had an idea of what my college experience was going to look like, I couldn't imagine or prepare for all the ways my life would change or where the college experience would take me. It made me realize that this is an adventure that can take you in so many different and wonderful directions if you let it.

The key is being flexible with your plans and your expectations.

I understand the reluctance to let go of your image of what college should be but, honestly, if you keep yourself open to new and different opportunities, you can find yourself in a situation that's even better than you imagined.

I'm not saying that you need to go to college without any expectations, that's honestly impossible. All I'm suggesting is that you should keep yourself open to new friends, new subjects, and new experiences.

Even if you go to college with an idea of what you want to major in, don't be afraid to take classes that are outside of that subject. Join clubs that you may not be familiar with and meet new people!

Keeping yourself open and flexible to new and different opportunities will make your college experience all the more rewarding.