Dear me a year ago,

You probably feel very overwhelmed. College isn't exactly what you expected, is it? You are having fun, but you feel sort of "on the outskirts" and you aren't really fitting in. Trust me, I know. After all, I was you. But, things will change for the better...just wait and see. If you don't believe me, here are some examples from yours truly:

1. You will get the job!

Yes! That's right! So, stop stressing yourself out. You'll be able to pay the bills AND get a great head start on your goal career path! Go....ME!

2. You will realize what you REALLY want to do with your life.

Creativity has always been your strong suit. Follow what you know and love, and avoid what you "think" you could be successful in pursuing. Do what you love, and success will follow.

3. You will make great friends!

Don't be afraid to be yourself. You will never scare people away with your "big personality" and you will find those who love and appreciate you for the weirdo you are.

4. You will discover you have new talents!

Embrace art! Embrace your ability to comfort others! Embrace your full writing skill! Never cut yourself short. Be willing to experiment and try new things! By testing your limits, you may still find unknown yet wonderful things!

5. You will become a stronger person (mentally and physically).

Independent and confident, you will feel ready to tackle the world head-on. Opportunities will find you, and you will accept them and the challenges that come with them, gladly. You will hurt mentally and physically, but you will recover and come back better. Never be afraid.

6. You will experience true heartbreak for the first time.

But, you will realize that it was entirely for the best. You will learn to always love yourself first, and a much healthier and joyful relationship will follow.

7. You will lose a best friend.

You are going to hate to see them go, but you will know it was the right time. You may question the concept of life and death for a while, but the grief will become easier to handle. You will realize that they will never leave you, and will always reside in a piece of your heart.

8. You will embrace your fun and wild side!

You will re-discover your experimental, "spur of the moment", a little crazy side! You will try new things, get spontaneous body art, and go on adventures. Learn to let go and live in the moment on occasion.

9. You will learn the value of a good support system.

Your family is one of your most valuable blessings. Learn that you truly can rely on them for anything and that you don't always need to handle the world alone.

10. You will be happy.

Your life, friends, relationships, career path...it will all start falling into place. Life will always be chaotic and fast-paced, especially with big goals and dreams like yours. But, you will have a moment where you will close your eyes and say "this is what happiness feels like". And, you will continue your life striving to keep that feeling.

Life will be rough at times, you can be sure of that. There will be days when happiness will elude you and it will be a struggle to get yourself out of bed. But, never doubt yourself. Create ladders and bridges to overcome your obstacles. Remain focused, remain passionate, and remain true to yourself. You'll do just fine. Just trust, me.

Much love,

Me