I survived my junior year of college. I have to say that five years ago, I never would have dreamed that I would be here. Because of that and the fact that I’m getting ready to begin my final year of college, I am feeling really introspective. Sometimes it makes me so sad that I want to sit and cry while eating a jar of peanut butter, because I do not feel ready to be in the real world. But the other part of me is so excited to get out there and be an adult.

So, with that comes so many thoughts and memories. I started out a timid 20-year-old from a small farm town. Now here I am, a 23-year-old, former RA, Lead Editor for the school news source and well on my way to earning a degree in journalism. It’s amazing to look back and see how much has changed.

Through the years, I have compiled a list of some of the best advice and encouragement that helped me through my college experience. It’s a recommendation for you and a reminder for me.

-You are you, no matter how tirelessly you work to be somebody else.

-Validity isn’t something you earn, it’s something you already possess.

-Having a tender heart is nothing to be ashamed of. You just have a lot of feelings.

-If dating a certain person makes you feel bad about yourself, stop dating them.

-Make-up is an option, not the law of womanhood.

-No diet or exercise plan is worth more than your sanity. You eat that ice cream if you need to.

-Don’t be selfish. Spend your money and your time on other people. You will be infinitely happier.

-Fulfillment is found in Christ, not in your boyfriend.

-Don’t wait on people who are living their lives without you.

-Call your mom sometimes.

-Remind people often that you are strong.

-Buy t-shirts a couple sizes bigger than you actually are. More room for comfort.

-Friends are found in really unlikely places. The best friends I’ve ever had are people I never would have picked myself.

-Listen to people if they’re hurt, happy, sad, mad, whatever. You can learn a lot about them and even some things about yourself if you stop and listen.

-The remedy for any solemn mood is a 1980s playlist.

-Experience the freedom that comes when feeling self-conscious is no longer an issue.

Last but not least,

Don’t hide yourself away. God created you for a purpose more amazing than anything you can fathom. You have potential, you have talents, you have opportunity and you have a responsibility to yourself, the world and your Creator. Don’t hide yourself away - be amazing.