2010-2020 were some interesting years, to say the least. During this time, I survived the challenges of middle school, began my journey at Penn State, and traveled outside of the country for the first time. I really saw some major growth in myself both socially and academically. I finally found myself and the person I always wanted to be and was truly able to feel accepted for this. As this new decade begins, a lot of things remain unknown. For the first time in my life, there is no set path for my life to take after I graduate college this May. In all honesty, this is kind of a scary thought, but I am ready for the potential this could also bring!
With this all being said, I know this decade will be better than the last, and here's why:
1. I finally graduate.
All my hard work and dedication will be rewarded soon. I will finally see the direct benefits of all these years of schooling, upon receiving my degree and entering the world of true adulthood.
2. I will get my first 'adult job.'
Although I am kind of nervous to enter the working world, I am also very excited. I cannot wait to no longer work my part-time job. It is so cool to think that in a few short months I will hopefully be working somewhere I actually enjoy with a way better paycheck.
3. It will be the decade I move out of my hometown.
While the outside of Philly suburbs was an ideal place to grow up, I am ready to spread my wings and see what other parts of the world have to offer. I am the type of person that prefers a more busy, highly-populated area. I am hoping to begin my career in New York City.
4. I'll be able to travel once again.
Since my brother and I are both graduating high school and college this year respectively, my parents decided to plan a trip to Greece and the Amalfi Coast. An even better surprise though is that we will be returning this summer to my study abroad hometown of Florence. I cannot contain my excitement as I am writing this!
5. I'm going to meet new people.
As much as I love Penn State and all of the amazing people that this place has brought into my life, I am ready to expand my social circle once again. I love meeting new people and going to new places, so I am ready for this cycle to begin!
6. I have hope I'll find love.
Although college provided me with a lot of experiences, in terms of romance, my love life has seriously been lacking. Now that I have truly grown comfortable with myself, I want to find a more long-term relationship this decade.
7. I can finally own a pet.
Growing up with a little brother that is basically allergic to everything, I was never able to have pets in the household. I always wanted a dog, so now that I am living on my own this can easily be achieved.
8. I can finally enjoy the finer things in life.
No longer operating off a college student salary, I can actually treat myself to dinner and drinks more often. I can take more trips and purchase more expensive clothes.
9. This decade I can start a family.
I have always seen myself as a father, and now that schooling is out of the way, this can hopefully happen— after I meet the right person of course!
10. It is the decade of the unknown.
Like I mentioned earlier, this is the first decade of my life where there is no natural path. Once I become a Penn State alumni, the future remains up to me. I have no idea where these next 10 years will take me, but I am optimistic for whatever life brings.
