Three years ago when I started at Longwood University, I didn't know what to expect. High school had been an absolute bust and I didn't know what college would be like - if it would be any better.

The truth is, college exceeded any and all expectations I had and has been the best chapter of my life thus far. I cannot believe in just a few weeks, I'll be entering my senior year and following that, my year-long journey of master's work before starting a "big girl job."

All our lives, we're being prepared for adult life, the future. It blows my mind that in just another two years, all that prep will be complete and I'll be a full-blown, on-my-own, adult.

There are a few things I've learned along the way.

1. Do what's best for you - always.

2. It is a-okay to think of yourself first.

3. Always leave yourself more than enough time to accomplish anything.

4. There is nothing wrong with staying in on the weekends - no matter what anyone else has to think or say about it.

5. Make memories while you can.

One of the biggest takeaways I've had from college is that it is okay to be selfish. It's okay to think of yourself before considering others. It is so easy to get wrapped up in this mindset of pleasing other people in order to be liked but that's not what life should be about. Be your own advocate and do good by yourself.

I haven't even accepted the fact that I'm going to be a senior, mostly because I know I have a fifth year, but as I sit here with my school-aged summer campers it has set in how fast time flies.

One goal I have for my senior year is to take more pictures and live each and every day the happiest that I can.

What goals do you have going into the upcoming school year?