Looking back now, I remember graduating my senior year, being so excited to start a new chapter in my life. I couldn’t wait for summer to end and to finally be on my own. Even though I knew I would have to leave my family and friends behind, I still couldn’t wait to have a new experience in my life. As the summer got shorter, I got more and more anxious, awaiting the new opportunities and friendships I would create.
When the week had finally arrived to leave for school, I was terrified. All of my childhood best friends were gone and I realized I wouldn’t be seeing them until the next holiday. I was about to be thrown into a whole new atmosphere with no one I knew and had to try and remember how to make friends again. I remember my mom and dad telling me how much fun I was going to have and trying to remind me of the excitement I once felt a few weeks earlier. In the beginning, it definitely wasn’t easy, between the late night texts to my parents and the many visits home, I didn’t think I could do it. But every week started getting easier and easier until I was having more fun at school than I ever did at home. I found friends who were just like me and who now have a guaranteed spot in my bridal party. I joined so many different clubs and organizations on campus, including a sorority, and I had the best experience as a freshman.
Although everything worked out fine, I definitely had many ups and downs throughout my college year as a freshman. One thing that I realized while being here was how lucky I was to have such an amazing family. Whenever I was sad or needed cheering up, my family would come visit me, whether it was my parents, cousins or even grandparents. My parents would text and call me every night to make sure things were OK and I even had the occasional Skype conversation with my grandparents, even if it took them a little while to figure it out. My family made me realize that I need them more than ever. They constantly remind me every day of how loved I am and that no matter what happens in life, they’ll always be there for me. I always knew I could count on my family, but being at college has opened my eyes even more. I can’t thank them enough for the love and support they give me each and every day, and I’m so blessed to have every single one of them in my life. I realized that college isn’t just about parties and boys, but also serves as a life lesson too. It makes you appreciate your home and family even more, especially being away for such a long time. I just wanted to say thank you to my amazing family on making my life journey full of love and opportunities. You remind me every day to stay positive and I couldn’t imagine life without you.
