As the summer comes to an end much quicker than ever expected, I find myself experiencing feelings of excitement and fear for this new stage in life that I'm just a few weeks short of beginning. While I had some of the best times in high school, it comes a point when it’s time to move on, and you're definitely ready for that. As there will be much I miss, including a few of my favorite people that I hate leaving behind, there’s much to look forward to. As everyone says, “college is the best four years of your life.” I'm ready to take on the challenge in a few short weeks.

Independence

The best part: no parents. I don’t think I can handle hearing “clean your room” when it's just about spotless, or the five texts of questions asking what I've been up to tonight. You are now responsible for yourself, and while your freedom may seem limitless, it's up to you to control and balance school and social life. This taste of independence allows for students to experiment on their own what works well for them and what doesn’t. It may not always go right at first; you may decide to go out instead of study, but hopefully in the end, you’ll learn what works best for you.

New People

While we love our high school friends and the people we’ve met the past four years, there comes a time when the necessary high school drama builds up and you're over it. While there's some of that you’ll miss dearly, if it's a good friendship, you'll stay in touch.

Weekends

No longer do you and your friends have to figure out plans over text to find out what you're going to do this weekend and find out if there's anything going on. I'm excited to be living so close to everyone and can always find people to go out with, stay in, or study with. You no longer have to wonder if you'll get invited to that party on Friday, because in college, you can go to whichever frat you're feeling for the night (or dorms for us freshmen the first few weeks), or even multiple parties. All are welcome, which is much different and something to look forward to. There's always something going on, and if not, at least you got all your friends at the same place.

Self

What's great about college is a fresh start. If you want to get over the poor reputation you had in high school, it's possible. Maybe you want to switch your name and try something new, or want to become a little more outgoing and break out of your shell. It's all up to you.

Food

While nothing is more satisfying than a home-cooked meal by your mom, college food always seems to excite the incoming freshmen. You no longer have to eat "when dinner is served" or eat it "whether you like it or not." Instead, you're completely on your own schedule. You can eat when you want, and what you want, and the best part, as much as you want. You have so many options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that are definitely worth taking a couple extra trips to the gym for.

With much to look forward to, I can't wait to call DePauw my home for the next four years. I hope it will become everything I'm expecting and more, and will turn into a home that I never want to leave.