As I constantly say, college is an learning experience. You grow, both mentally and physically. You pursue new opportunities. I've only been here for about a year but I am a stronger person. I've done things so out of my usual reserved character and I've learned a lot more about myself.

When I was in high school, I was reserved and shy. I hid behind my group of friends to make it seem like I was sociable. Many people I knew had me on this pedestal that I used to push aside my constant anxiety and depression.

In college I've grown out of the little shell I had myself in. I've done things out of my comfort zone. I joined a sorority; I'm more social and open to getting to know people. I did feel the need to have people to depend on and craved human attention but before doing this, I found two other girls who gave me enough of what I was looking for. They showed me how not to depend on others. Instead, I should depend on myself and the rest will fall naturally.

I have learned and developed into someone who is content with herself in in more ways than one. I have gained an immense amount of confidence and have seen the beauty in myself in the worst times. I used to rely on other people when it came to restoring my self-confidence.

Not to say that there aren't days that I wake up and see my flaws but even on those days, I find something that works and makes me feel better. For example, if I'm feeling down about how I'm breaking out, I'll put on some makeup or I'll fix my hair in a way that I really like. Maybe I'll even wear a nice outfit that will make me feel a bit better.

My most favorite part about this whole thing is realizing that I don't need certain people in my life. I used to put such a strain on myself to stretch myself for others. Now, I've realized that you can give people so much and not get anything back. People lose interest in you and justify it by bringing up your biggest flaw. No matter how it happens, sometimes you can't change the perception others have of you.

People may not like that you've changed but sometimes, change is the best thing.