Throughout one’s life, we are asked the question, “What do you want to do with your life?” As kids, this question came in the form of, “What do you want to be when your grow up?” Answers varied from astronaut, a ballerina, a firefighter, a police officer, a superstar and more. The possibilities were and still remain endless. We again encounter this question toward the end of our high school years in the form of, “What do you want to major in?” or “What college are going to attend in the fall?” Once again, the possibilities are endless. We weight our options, figure out a plan and move onto our next steps. Sometimes we may be unsure of what those next steps are and we may not know the answer to those questions, but that is okay.
As I approach my senior year of college, I have been asked, “What do you want to do when you graduate?” or “Where do you see yourself after you have graduated?” You would think that as an almost senior in college, I would have it all figured out or mostly figured out, but I kind of don’t, and that’s okay. I have many ideas, dreams, and goals that I want to accomplish along with places that I would love to be. However, I have been trying to focus more on the journey to those accomplishments and those decisions. The journey to those decisions, accomplishments and goals are going to be worth it and the journey is what is often forgotten.
I urge you, recent high school graduates, to enjoy every moment of your journey throughout college. School is very important and you should definitely care about our education. However, as you approach your college journeys, take a deep break and try not to worry. I know that it is often hard to not worry, especially when you’re about to enter into a new environment and experience, but you’ve been led to every decision you’ve made for some reason. I am a strong believer that everything does happen for a reason and that God leads us to opportunities and decisions. I know that leaving your familiar hometown and high school environment is very difficult. For four years, you’ve mostly been with the same people, in the same area and taking the basic classes that we are mostly forced to take. I remember when I graduated high school, I had so many mixed emotions. My heart was filled with happiness and excitement from graduating, but sadness creeped in because I was now leaving all those years behind me. I also was fearful of my new journey I was about to embark on, fearful of the unknown and and fearful of college in general. College is a whole new ballpark that I hadn’t been exposed to yet. All of those emotions that you are feeling right now are completely normal. College is supposed to be somewhat scary, and every new journey typically is.
When you do step onto your college campus for the fall semester, whether away or at home, take every moment in and be as much in the moment as you can. Move-in week is such an exciting time and there are so many other freshman and transfer students who are in your shoes also. Older students also get involved during move-in week and campuses are typically buzzing throughout the week as everyone gets settled. The great thing about college is the amount of freedom and opportunity that you truly have. Be sure to take every opportunity you want to take, stay out till 3 a.m. on the weekends, pull and all-nighter in the library during finals week, build memories, join that club that you have your eyes on, try out for the sports team, reach out to that person in class, expand your horizons and take that class you’ve always wanted to take. At the same time, don’t forget to stick to your morals and stand up for what you believe in.
College graduates don’t lie when they say that your four years of college fly by because the most certainty do. I am now entering into my senior year of college, but my first semester seems like it was yesterday. If there’s one thing I have learned since being in college, it’s that I should’ve enjoyed the ride more than I have. I am a very motivated, self-driven individual who focused all of her time and energy into her academics, which is such a great thing. However, sometimes I feel that I needed to sit back and relax a little more than I had up until this point. Having realized this, I want to encourage you, a future college student, to do them same. Do care about your grades and your classes and realize there are times to be stressed. However, don’t forget to live your college years to the fullest and to just step back and enjoy the craziness around you. College are the best four years of your life, according to many, and I hope you’re excited for your new journey ahead.
