Hey, you. I remember you from only a year ago. I know you're excited to wrap up your summer of making pizzas only to make the long-awaited journey back to Ohio State. This is going to be a big year for you, and you have no idea what you're in for. Time to write a weird letter to my past self to give you some insight as to what your sophomore year of college will look like.
There is no avoiding excitement with you. Housing will fall through, and you will have to scramble for an apartment in July. Yes, July; a month before you move back. Have so much fun packing. It will be really stressful at first, but eventually, it will sink in that you will probably never live in your parents' home again. You'll get gross and emotional, but you'll pack your car to the brim, drive alone to Columbus, and move into your first big kid living space. It will be safe and warm. You'll feel sad about leaving it in a year from now, but it will serve you well. Pro-tip: you will meet two dogs that live downstairs.
This first semester of sophomore year will leave you drained. You will be welcomed back into high school during an education experience program. You will grow to love these awkward little teenagers, and you'll find yourself missing them, reading the little notes they left you. Remember to cherish this precious malleability of young minds; it will be invaluable later on. Pro-tip: get to know your students. They have so much to teach you.
Fall semester will end in the blink of an eye, and Chicago will be calling your name over winter break. Some weird shit is going to happen on that trip, but you will spend the entire time laughing and screaming about the universe with genuine people. Soak in every possible moment of these few days because they will prove to be revitalizing. Pro tip: Don't get a bus ticket from Chicago to Cleveland at 7 a.m. after New Year's Eve. Just don't do it.
Eventually, your mental health will crumble. Pay attention to the signs, and ask for help. Put yourself first. When you finally take that step, you will feel like you haven't felt in years (how old am I for saying this?). Pro-tip: try the medication. It helps.
You'll also spontaneously go to New York City with only a few hours of preparation. It will be exhausting and enchanting all in the same breath. Pro-tip: go to Central Park on your very first night there. There will be a dog social, and it might be the best day of your life.
The people will make the difference this year. There are going to be new friends to be made via social interaction that you successfully endure (future me could not be any more proud). Old friends will make new appearances, and acquaintances will become best friends. There will be just a few people that turn out to be different than you thought. They will disappoint you, but don't forget you have loving, consistent people that will be there at a moment's notice. Pro-tip: be selective with those around you.
Good luck with this jumble of emotions. In all seriousness, your sophomore year will change more than you can even fathom, and it will be invaluable.
