When I was a Freshman in college I had so many expectations. I thought that I would meet the love of my life, join a sorority, meet new people and become the woman that I always wanted to be.
Of course none of that happened my Freshman year, and that's okay.
Dear Freshman Year me,
A lot has changed since we last spoke. Freshman year was tough. You had to watch all your High School friends move on while you felt stuck in your small town. You went to the college that your parents picked out for you, instead of going away to Michigan State. You were forced to commute because your strict parents couldn't fathom the idea of you leaving. And while all of that was difficult in its self, I wouldn't take it back.
You learned a lot from that heart ache and pain. I think if anything, you realized that education had the power to open doors. You got many scholarships and awards. You were recognized for your intelligence and not your beauty (which led you to see that you are more than what you look on the outside).
Your freshman year you suffered from an eating disorder, eating about 500 calories a day. Luckily, you discovered high carb low fat veganism and started eating normally again. You also learned how to stop blaming your parents and you took matter into your own hands. My proudest moment is hands down when you decided to transfer to another college. You were only 18 years old and decided to defy your parents wishes. You went from one school to another, and switched majors from Biology to Journalism, which is your true passion.
Despite the fact that your own father told you that you could never make it, you did. You dormed at your new school, made amazing friends and even started to travel the world.
That summer, you went to Mexico, and for the first time felt free and close to your Latina roots. That summer you also were a part of the Disney College Program. You met wonderful people who reminded you that you too are worthy of love.
You have been published, launched your own blog, have people writing for your blog, and are now interning as a Public Relations assistant.
So yes, while you still haven't met the love of your life, or even joined a sorority, you have still done some pretty amazing things. Let me just say, I am very proud of you!
You have pushed yourself to get on the Dean's list all semesters of your college career. You have also pushed yourself past your comfort zone wether it be doing things alone or talking to strangers. You have reached a point in life where you are comfortable and confident. You know who you are now and it only took 2 years since your freshman year.
So, to my freshman year self, I say that the pain you are going through is only temporary... stay in faith. Things will get better. (They did, and will continue to).
Stay positive, love your family and follow your dreams. I have big plans for you!
With Love,
Me.
