Leaving high school and moving away to college is already such a large change that we take in our lives as young adults. When your life has modifications, like living away from your family, the majority of people are excited for that change and becoming adults themselves. But what happens when the change is much larger? Do you hold back and turn your nose up at it? Or do you welcome this change with open arms?

Change is crucial in life and in any relationship. Sometimes life will throw you a curveball that you didn't expect, but you have to learn to welcome it into your life. For me, seeing people move on to bigger and better things gives me hope--not only for them but for me too. I know that if they are able to work hard and succeed, I can continue on and do the same. I recommend looking up to the people around you who are growing so that you have something to strive for. It's unhealthy to live in negativity towards yourself or others, and if you don't think you can do something, you probably won't.

Someone once told me that "People should step up to responsibility all the time, not when someone leaves." And it's true; we should be working to better ourselves everyday at our jobs, even if it's not the "dream job," and not when everyone is looking at us. When there is a large change in the workplace, I want to better myself and those around me and insure them that everything will work out for a reason.

When new staff members or new friends come in, there may be a bit of a bumpy road at first, but it's easier to all come together and find the problems than to create gossip and make matters worse. Change is hard and I know there are tears and questions. My biggest advice is to ask questions. Ask your boss, your friends, or whomever may be changing in your life. Asking questions is the most beneficial because it gets your mind off of the subject. If you're anything like me, I tend to psyche myself out more than I really need to. It also shows a sign of responsibility because you aren't afraid to speak up and confront what is being gossiped about.

Don't cave into gossip, take yourself out of the equation, and speak to those who will also embrace this new and exciting time in your lives. Surround yourself with other positive people and you will see a positive change in any situation.

When newcomers arrive, try your best to be excited for them. Know that people grow and, yes, even change and mature over the years. So if it's someone you knew a while back and you're unsure, again sit down and chat with them and open up your heart and mind. It's all about communication in these life changing situations.