With the realization that the first year of many college freshman is quickly coming to an end, I began to see how this first year has changed me. I have always been a little more independent and self-sufficient, able to be away from my family for long periods of time, which is really what everyone says is a hard part about your first year.
At the beginning, we never missed our families more than we did then. Without a doubt, our families mean everything to us, but now we see why. Our beds, showers and home cooked meals are missed dearly too, but there is this one thing about being on our own at school which changes us—forever.
It started as small things, registering for classes, meeting new people and scheduling what to do each and every day. Quickly this changed to simultaneously carving out the beginning of our future. Everything that we choose in college can and will affect us in the long run.
At first, we did not know if we could handle college. At first, it is a lot of change. At first, you want to call your mom and ask her how to fold your t-shirt properly because you are afraid of doing it wrong. Over time, these calls grow to be less and less, and more about scheduling when you will be home for break.
Through these little things, the independence shines through a college student. Clearly not everyone has the same experience, but your first year changes you. Meeting friends who you spend every waking minute with and who know your weirdest habits because they are stuck living in the same room/hall.
It begins as small changes when you come home for break. Sitting at the adult table on Thanksgiving and other holiday dinners is not an uncomfortable conversation with family members filtering stories, or avoiding certain topics. Now, you easily join in on the conversation, and speak about “adult” topics.
The little things, like when your mom let you go to the mall alone for the first time, or the first time you had to figure out how to tip the waiter when out with your friends have prepared you for now. College is a rollercoaster, at first it seems nerve wracking and you don't want to leave the comfort of your hometown. The peak is when you realize that your school is where you are supposed to be. You have friends that are there for you, you have the academic tools to be where you want after graduation, and most importantly, you are happy.
It took me awhile to realize this, but I really don't know what I would do without the people I have met. They have helped me become a better person, and changed my life.
Thank you to all of you who have helped me, let me cry on your shoulder, laughed at me, or just smiled at me. College rocks, and I can’t wait for the rest.
