Freshman year of college is tough. A new school, new town, new living situation: it’s a very difficult transition, no doubt. Although I’m technically a sophomore, this year has so many new things in store for me, it feels like freshman year all over again.

Last year as a freshman, I was on the Miami Varsity Synchronized Skating Team. Being on the team was the absolute best part of freshman year, and I am beyond grateful for that experience. After not making the team as a sophomore, I felt a little lost since it had been such a huge part of my life last year. Now that I don’t have my days planned out for me (which I liked), I’m looking at this year as an opportunity to try new things and get involved, the same outlook many freshman students have.

Most freshmen come into school with just a class schedule and no extra activities lined up; this year, that’s what I did too. To fill in the rest of my time, I started with trying out for the club synchronized skating team.

The club team has practice twice a week, and the varsity team had practice every day; that itself is a big change. On varsity, I knew everyone. On the club team, I knew no one. I had no idea what I was walking into when I went to tryouts, but I’m glad I went. Like any other team, we’ve had ups and downs, but the majority of the season so far has been a positive experience for me. I’m looking forward to competing with my new friends and seeing where we go this season. It’s not varsity, but it’s a way to stay involved with the sport I love with people who love it, too.

I don’t know what’s next for me this year, but I do know I have a lot of options. Maybe I’ll join a sorority, try a new sport, or maybe get involved a new club. The possibilities seem endless at this school.

Freshman year was hard, but this second time around, it’s going to be better. I’ve done it once, I can do it again. This is going to be the year of pushing my boundaries and trying new things. Like my teammates and coaches always say, “Go out of your comfort zone." That’s what my second chance at freshman year has been and will continue to be all about.