Dear Future Self,

I hope that these past three years have gone by as smoothly as you could have ever imagined. College is tougher than many people chalk it up to be, and if I know anything about you right now, you won’t give up. I write this to document both how I am currently feeling, and what I hope to accomplish and feel like during the next three years of my college journey.

First, I hope that you have gone easy on yourself. There is no point in being so harsh on yourself; it just makes things worse. If you’ve recognized when you’re tired and need sleep, or when you’re overworked and need to take a day off, good job. You hold such high expectations for yourself, and sometimes it is necessary to just breathe.

Second, I hope that you have been able to be more emotional. Not a weepy river, but less of an "exploding bottle" type of scenario. Though sometimes it is hard to show your true colors, let yourself be vulnerable. Vulnerability is the key to success. No matter how hard you want to block out how you are feeling, allow yourself to feel. You have worked so hard, and I believe in you. You can do this.

Third, I hope that you have been able to the truest version of yourself, whatever that may be. Although it may seem daunting now, this is the only way that you will ever be truly happy. If you want to wear a suit and tie, do it. If you don't know what pronouns to use at the moment, that is completely okay. But when you do figure it out, don't be afraid to be yourself.

Fourth, I hope that you have been able to accomplish all that you wanted to do while an undergraduate student. I hope you have taken on leadership positions, gotten the chance to be an RA, enjoyed numerous activities, and tried new things out of your comfort zone. The past four years are supposedly the best four years of your life, I pray that you’ve put them to good use. Soon, it’s time to adult.

Fifth, I hope that you have made some friendships that will last a lifetime. Though it has been difficult this first year, remember that friendships take time. You aren’t going to become everyone’s best friend, but there are plenty of compatible people out there who you have yet to meet. Trust the process.

Most of all, I hope that you are happy. Those long, sleepless nights are bound to pay off at some point. Remember that, while at some times it feels like the whole world is against you, it’s not. People want to see you thrive just as much as you want to see your own success. Remember that you cannot control what other people are doing, you are only in charge of your own actions.

Sincerely,

Isabella Perry, aged 18

May 2, 2018