Entering college, I knew that maintaining my faith would be difficult.

I had a plan though; I would go to bible studies, attend church, continue reading my Bible, and spread the word to my new friends. Like most of the plans I've made in life, this particular plan of mine was harder than I thought. Balancing school, social life, and my faith was much more difficult than I expected. How was it that the most important thing in my life was the hardest thing to maintain? I had good grades, good friends, and a shaky foundation for my faith.

Being away from my support group was harder than I ever knew; my family, my youth group, and my friends. The one thing that helped in my busy life was prayer. I prayed every night, and that was my way to feel closer to God. It helped me realize that even with a shaky foundation, I could still feel close to God.

Fast forward two years, and my faith is still a little shaky, but I know that God is there with me no matter what happens. I have faithful friends, a family that sends me daily encouragement, scripture, and prayer that gets me through each day. I have constant reminders that God is watching over me, even through the many trials.

I am constantly reminded that there is beauty all around me. God has put so many amazing things in my life. No matter the amount of stresses in the college world, God is with me.

Going to school and balancing your religion will be difficult, but always remember that God is there and walking with you every step of the way.