Often when you think you're at the end of something, you're at the beginning of something else. I had used that phrase when I was going through the transition from high school to college. Being a first-generation college student, I had no idea what to expect. Was it going to be hard to leave my family? Was I going to make friends? Will anyone even like me?

When I signed up for orientation at Florida Gulf Coast University, I again had no idea what to expect. I have a friend who is a sophomore now and I had tons of questions for her. What do I pack? What do we do?

Truthfully, orientation was one of the best experiences. From meeting tons of new people to trying to win at chant off - Flamingos every day! My sister and I had actually got a hotel and stayed for a few days to explore Fort Myers and we absolutely loved it! I could not believe I was actually starting a new life here! When the time to go to orientation came, I was nervous. But as people started approaching me, I realized there was nothing to be nervous about. Everyone is super friendly and you fit in so easily! When we met the orientation leaders, who I swear are on something to be that energetic, they were super welcoming and happy we were there.

After orientation, I had about a month to mentally prepare myself for my new life. I was working over forty hours every week to help pay for college. I had no idea what to pack, I Googled everything! Then June 22nd came and it was time to move in. Saying goodbye to my mom was ultimately the hardest thing I have ever done, not knowing if I was going to see her or if she was going to come to see me for the next six weeks. I had always shared a room with my little sister so moving out and into my own room was actually a dream come true, I was beyond excited to actually put my room how I want it and not need approval from anyone.

My roommates and I actually get along great, which was another thing I was scared of. During the first week of Summer B classes, we did so much together! We went to the restaurant BJ's for $2 pizookie (pizza cookie) night, church, and even made our first college meal! My roommate, Courtney, brought a toaster oven and we decided we wanted pizza. We didn't have oven mitts or anything so I decided I was going to take the mini pizza out of the toaster oven with plastic knives… that was an adventure in itself!

Overall, my transition from high school to college was way better than I had ever expected and I cannot wait for the next four years at my new home! Go FGCU Eagles!!