Let's be honest; this past school year probably kicked your butt on more than one occasion. You've probably pulled a few all-nighters studying for that impossibly difficult test. You've probably overslept a couple of times and barely made it to class, or maybe you missed class entirely. You've probably had friend drama or relationship drama overtake your life. You've probably struggled to balance academics and your social life. You've probably gotten a few bad grades. You may have even had something truly tragic happen to you.
I know that several of these things happened to me over the course of this past year. College is great, but it doesn't come without its challenges. There are definitely not so great moments. That being said, I wouldn't change a single thing that's happened this school year. I'm a firm believer that everything happens for a reason.
School can be really chaotic. I've often felt as though I had too many things to do in a ridiculously short amount of time. I think you may have felt like that sometimes too. Heck, I know that you've felt like that sometimes. Being in school isn't easy. But like I said, I believe that everything happens for a reason.
That all-nighter that you pulled? It taught you that procrastination can be deadly. But it also taught you that you're willing to make sacrifices for your education.
That time you overslept? It taught you that you need to be responsible and make sure you get to class. But it also taught you that sometimes, it's okay to rest, and that life will still be there when you wake up.
The time you had drama with a friend or a significant other? It taught you that some people just aren't worth your time. But it also taught you to fight for the people that are.
The time you got a bad grade? It taught you that you need to have more discipline and study harder. But it also taught you to brush yourself off, stand up, and try again.
Everything that has happened this school year has happened for a reason. I've learned so much just from my trials and tribulations. I've learned to study smarter and find the ways that I learn best. I've learned that time management is one of the most important skills you can polish. I've learned that a little kindness goes a really long way. I've learned to be strong, stronger than I ever thought I could be.
I know that you've learned a lot too. I know that sometimes, it's hard to step back and see those lessons for what they are. This school year has really changed my life. Maybe not always for the better, but I've come out on top in the end. So here's to you, 2015-2016 school year. Thank you for all you've taught me.
