I felt like something wrong was with me; I was the only one who wasn't excited to go to college. I loved my high school, my group of friends, and my life at that point senior year. I loved spending every Friday night at the football games and spending Saturday night camping out with my best friends. I wasn't ready to let go of that while everyone else was. If I could go back and tell my senior-year self what I know now, I wouldn't hesitate.
At first, college was hard. It was really hard. It's an incredible adjustment, especially if you're like me and commute. I didn't know a lot of people and honestly, I still don't now at the end of the semester. I have made some amazing friends over this first year and I wish I could tell myself that it would be get better. I wish I could go back and keep myself from getting upset, calling my best friend who was three hours away, asking when everyone was coming home. I stayed in my shell other than joining a few organizations on campus.
Through all of the negative emotions I was feeling at the beginning of the year, somehow some courage was able to make its way through. I stepped out of my comfort zone and thank God I did. I learned so much about myself and could not be more thankful for that. I took a chance and joined the college's dance team. Yes, me, the shy little girl who doesn't dare open her mouth around people she doesn't know, managed to scrape up enough courage to dance in front of a huge crowd. While I was on the dance team, I met one of my best friends. If I had never tried something new, I would not have of met her and then I would really be upset. My advice to those about to go off to college in the fall: step out of your comfort zone. Trust me, it pays off.
As I reflect back on my first year of college, I can only think about the good times. I struggled and didn't think that I would be able be happy at my chosen college. However now, I couldn't be happier. I've spent countless nights laughing until I've cried and countless nights staying up to finish the paper due at 11:00 tomorrow morning. It's been an incredible year and to those who are worried about their first year, it's okay. It's okay to be scared and it's okay to be the only one not looking forward to it. If you don't have any clue what you want to do with the rest of your life, that's cool because I don't either. I chose a major about two weeks ago and I'll probably change it. You and I both have time to figure it out. As far as my advice for you, worried high school senior, have faith and actually do your homework.
