In the matter of a few weeks, I will officially finish my first year of college. As I sit in my dorm room, reflecting on this past year I can't help but think of everything I learned this past year. So, to all those just beginning their college journey, this is for you.

You are going to change. You might not notice it at first, but the change occurs over time in a variety of ways. It starts off when you make your first real friend. I'm going to be honest there's a chance they are going to be completely different from you in every way. However, there's a strange unspoken truth among first-year college students and that is you stick together regardless if you come from the same social circle.

It's a strange experience when you start making more friends and the circle becomes bigger. After all, most of you have completely different backgrounds and interests but you have a bond that holds you together.

A few months in, you'll see a change in yourself. Maybe you laugh a bit more or maybe you study harder. I saw the change when I joined a sorority. After years of trying to hide in the background, I was throwing myself into Greek Life and wanting to meet everyone I could.

I no longer wanted to hide in the shadows, but desired to walk in the sunshine.

From there I only grew. I took more chances. I learned to seize opportunities. For the first time, I felt alive. I was who I am supposed to be.

Now, you'll also learn how to be an adult. You know saving money, buying groceries and all that stuff. It takes a minute, but trust me when I say you'll learn that stuff quickly. But, the ways you change are so special.

So, to my soon-to-be college students, I wish you the best.