I remember moving into my freshman dorm like it was yesterday. My mom was crying, I was sweating, and strangers surrounded us. I can’t tell you much about the moving process, or who I met that day, but I can tell you how I felt when it was all over.
Maybe I spoke too soon. It’s hard to explain what I was feeling. That “I’m alone in a new world” feeling. That “the world is mine to take” feeling. That “what do you mean I have to know what I want to do with my life? I was asking permission to use the bathroom a few months ago” feeling. It was a lot. I had no idea what to expect from the year to come, living in a room that resembled a jail cell.
Fast Forward two years later and I find myself as a junior moving into a house with five girls who I didn’t even know two years ago. My mom still cried, I was still sweaty, but everything else was different. When it was all over, I couldn’t help but feel that same pang of emotions that my freshman self did. But with that pang, came understanding. Being in college for two years has taught me more about myself, others, and life that I can’t even begin to describe, but there are a few things I’ve learned that have stuck out.
People will hurt you. Whether they mean to or not. College is a time where everyone feels like they need to get their lives together. You’re finally free to do whatever you want. Why not do everything you can to make yourself happy? Unfortunately, sometimes your happiness interferes with others. However, it’s okay because you are responsible for your own happiness. Whether it be a break up, getting left out at a party, or just downright transgression, be prepared to be hurt.
It’s important all the time, but especially in those times of hurt, that you love yourself. J. Cole said it best, “no such thing as a life that's better than yours.” I can’t stress enough how important it is to love who you are. There are times when you will feel all alone and it takes a certain kind of strength to be there for yourself. Learn how important you are and you will grow as a person. Sometimes all you have is yourself, so make sure you can accept it and even appreciate it.
If there’s anything that college has taught me, it’s that life doesn’t stop for anyone. Failed a test? Okay, cool. No time to be upset. Go to your next class and pay attention so you don’t fail another one. You’re sick and have an important meeting to go to? Don’t even think about canceling it. Handle it. Someone breaks your heart? Awesome. Fulfill all of your responsibilities just like you would if it didn’t happen. Have a headache but have an assignment due? Can’t fail. Must work. No matter what happens, you have to just keep on living.
As I begin my third year of college, I have no idea what this year has in store for me. All I know, is that I’m going to keep on learning.
