It's hard to believe that after a whirlwind summer, I will finally be stepping into Syracuse University's campus in less than one week. Although I am the first of my friends to move in, I can most likely guarantee that I'm not the only one feeling nervous.

I had a difficult year regarding choosing a college. After getting rejected from my top choice school, I felt utterly lost as to where I belonged and what I should be doing. I hated the question "Where are you headed off to next year?" There was nothing worse than that reminder that my initial plans hadn't succeeded and that I was clueless as to where my next steps would take me.

I honestly applied to Syracuse on a whim, having lived in a neighboring town for most of my childhood and wishing to return to the area I love most. It was the last acceptance I heard from and my reaction was that of excitement. It didn't hit me right away that this would be home.

By the time I had visited the campus for Accepted Student's Day, I was sold by everything. I loved that I could study Forensic Science and be part of a campus that was basically a little city. Even though I sometimes worry about my next four years, I know that I made the right decision in choosing Syracuse University.

With one week left before I move in, I am feeling a wide range of emotions. I am anxious about beginning higher-level courses and finding a group that I truly fit in with. I am excited about the new experiences I will have and the ability to pursue my passion. Most important though, I am ready to embrace this new area of my life and fully step into adulthood.

Syracuse University may not have been where I originally saw myself, but I am more than thankful to call the college my home.