The first year of college is a test of mental and emotional strength; your workload is increased, you're away from home, and you're stripped of everything that was once familiar to you. In the midst of the confusion, you're surrounded by everyone else in the freshman class who is too preoccupied with masking their insecurities and forcing new friendships. When I arrived on campus, the loud, tacky, overwhelming, and borderline terrifying experience we call "orientation" sent me into sensory overload and had me questioning if I truly belonged at my school. While everyone needs time to make the adjustment, college is not supposed to be a time in your life where you doubt your happiness and expend your energy trying to cope with your emotional distress.

Despite the anxiety that seemed to prohibit me from fully enjoying the first semester of college, I was welcomed onto my campus with open arms by the incredibly kind and loving upperclassmen in my clubs and activities who took me under their wing and gave me a home. There's no doubt that adjusting to college will affect your life in some way, but sometimes all you need is to encounter a friendly face and a kind soul who can reassure you that you chose the right place.

To the juniors and seniors at my school who gave me memories that I will forever cherish, I cannot thank you enough.

Thank you for your kindness.

I could always count on the upperclassmen in my clubs to greet me with enthusiasm and friendliness. At a time where I felt insecure and unsure of myself, every smile made a difference. Thank you for introducing yourself, engaging in conversation, catching up on-the-daily, and always exuding happiness. Nothing helped me adjust more than being in an environment filled with laughter, love, and positivity.

Thank you for caring.

What took me by surprise when I started making friends in college was that the people on my campus genuinely cared about others. Coming from a high school filled self-serving students and fake friendships, I had rarely experienced a truly sincere person who asked about me and expressed interest in what I enjoyed. I was used to uttering a quick "hi" with a wave when seeing my friends around school, but when I came to college, unanticipated greetings around campus were heartfelt conversations about our lives. Thank you for inviting me to spend time together, sending loving messages, and going out of your way to get to know me. I stopped questioning whether I chose the right school when I experienced your compassion and hospitality.

Thank you for showing me the way.

Though I first struggled to find a group where I felt that I truly fit in, I am proud to say that I will be starting my sophomore year as a member of four clubs and counting, including principal positions. Seeing the passion and dedication that the upperclassmen on campus exhibit in their daily activities gave me the inspiration to be a future leader. Thank you for showing me all of the great opportunities our school offers and for motivating me to join the community. I hope to follow in your footsteps and to shepherd others as you have done for me.

Thank you for giving me a home.

It may have taken a semester to realize, but I can finish freshman year with the certainty that I am where I belong; not just feeling that I fit in, but knowing that I am a part of a family here on campus. Thank you for giving my heart a home and for welcoming me with generosity. I am a proud member of the Assumption College community, and I couldn't have done it without your love and guidance. You are the sunshine and soul of our campus; never stop spreading your love and lighting the way.