Wow. How is my freshman year at Purdue over already?

You know, I've always thought time was a weird concept. It seems like ages ago that I was driving up to Purdue, unloading our car, moving into my dorm, and saying my goodbyes. Yet, it is crazy to me that another school year has come and gone and sweet summertime has arrived.

Looking back on this life-changing year, I have come to realize just how much I have been rooted, grown, and blossomed all at the same time.

Coming to Purdue has given me a second home, a second family, and a new place to root myself into. At the same time, these new roots have allowed me to see growth in my character, maturity, values, and more. I'm sure you have seen/read many articles and blogs about freshman year memories, lessons, "open letters", etc.

Well, here's another one for you!

I believe everyone has different experiences and opportunities, leading to unique things they would like to share. So, you guessed it. Here are 8 experiences, lessons, etc from my freshman year of college that I would love to share with you. I'm sure some of you can relate to these and some of you have had completely different experiences. Either way, I hope you enjoy!

1. Dorm Life Isn't Actually That Bad

Coming into college, I thought I was going to hate dorm life. Living in a cracker box sized room, let alone with another person, did not sound appealing to me whatsoever. Not to mention, I am not the most organized person in the world. I dreaded being confined to one little space, with no comfy living room to lounge on the couch. However, despite my worries, I actually really enjoyed living in my dorm. My roommate and I turned out to be best friends, my lofted bed was actually very comfortable, and my floormates were great. I will actually admit that I may miss McCutcheon Hall room 230.

2. Time Management

In high school, I was one of those people who was involved in everything. I was in various clubs, two sports, made good grades and was class president. However, this is much more difficult in college. If I did as much as I did in high school, I am not sure I would still be sane. With more schoolwork and responsibilities, you really have to pick and choose what you put your time toward and what you're involved in. This year I have really learned the importance of time management and what to prioritize within the amount of time I have.

3. My Hometown is Pretty Awesome

As much as I love Purdue and have become acquainted with West Lafayette, coming to school has made me realize just how much I love my hometown of Jasper, IN. Growing up, I always knew Jasper was a special community. However, the older I get and the more places I experience, I come to notice more and more how special Jasper truly is. It is a town filled with loving, genuine, kind, supportive, people who are not only your neighbors but your family. I was extremely lucky to grow up in such an amazing town that gave me so much. As I said, I love Purdue, but each and every time I make a trip home to Jasper, there is something special in my heart that I find nowhere else in the world.

4. It is Ok To Be Different

As much as I think of myself as a leader, sometimes I do end up finding myself trying to mimic others. However, this is not because I want to be someone else or live someone else's life. I sometimes strive to be like others because I witness their success, happiness, etc. and I find myself envious. But one thing I've learned this year is that I am never going to accomplish the same things or pursue the same goals as others. And the best part is, that's ok! In fact, that's amazing news! God most definitely did not intend us all to do the same things or be the same people. With over 40,000 students pursuing different majors, passions, goals, etc. it's incredible to open your eyes to all the different possibilities crafted for each individual.

5. Take Time For Yourself

With the craziness of everything that comes with college, as I mentioned with time management, I have found it essential to take time for myself. I often find myself at the gym when I need some time to myself. I wholeheartedly believe that exercise and being active puts you in a good mood relieves stress, and helps you to feel better overall. I also take time for myself by taking naps, watching Netflix, and of course, writing. Honestly, writing for Odyssey is one of my favorite ways to relax and spend my free time. It allows me to not only give my brain a break from studying, but it allows me to expand my mind, be creative, and think about things I wouldn't normally.

6. I Adore My Mom

Of course, I have always adored my mom. But my freshman year of college truly made me open my eyes to how much I love and need my mom. I have always been close to her, so parting with her was pretty difficult for me. Especially after her spoiling me my whole senior year! But in all seriousness, I came to realize how much she actually did for me and provided for me my entire life. When I came to school, I instantly missed coming home after school and practice, spending nights watching movies with her, and our weekend shopping getaways to Indianapolis or Louisville. Although being apart from her was tough, she was more supportive than ever. When I was homesick first semester, I knew I could call her any time of day and she would be there with just the right words to say. She came up to visit on the weekends, and I made a few trips home. I am forever grateful for the support she has given me this entire school year, and how we have grown even closer.

7. I Am Not Going To Be Best Friends With Everyone

I have always thought of myself as a very friendly, outgoing person. And I still do, however, college has taught me that I am not going to be best friends with everyone. I have met many people who are very different from me and who have different views on things. However, this does not mean that I should not get along with or disrespect others. I have learned to accept and embrace different personalities and to learn from them. I think it's awesome getting to know different types of people, although we may not be alike.