College, oh college. You have been the best time, and worst time of my life so far. You have taught me how much I hate doing laundry, and how much I love being two doors down from my best friends. When my parents dropped me off that first day, I had no clue what was in store for me. I wondered how I was supposed to have time for sleep, school, socialization, and be involved in every thing my school offered. Classes started, and I called my mom crying at least once a week questioning how I was supposed to handle this course load. “But I really need to study,” and “Wow, I have so much work,” became frequent phrases of my vocabulary (even though I typically always chose to go out instead of studying or doing work). I learned how to meet friends during the awkward first few weeks of freshmen year that eventually led to me find a group of friends that are like family to me. I even learned how to take 14-minute naps between classes.
But one thing I want to thank you for, college, is the lessons you have taught me about myself. Between the difficult, blood pressure raising classes and learning to live in an 11x16 room with another person, you have shown me how capable I am of handling myself. You have shown me how strong I am. You have allowed me to develop a confidence that I didn’t have before. Sure I still mess up, and some days I may doubt my ability to make it in the real world, but then I remember that moment when I failed my first chemistry exam and worked super tirelessly to pull my grade up. I remember how I walked up to people that first week, that I never knew before, and introduced myself. I remember all those little moments that have helped get me to where I am today, and I know that I can do this. So thank you, college, for allowing me to grow into the person I am today, and forgiving me when I forget that sometimes.
I feel like Elle Woods when she won that court case and proved to everybody she could do it.
*cue the sassy walk down my campus’ front lawn*
