After 10 months of obsessive studying and spontaneous adventures, I can finally finish my chapter of freshman year. I will be experiencing my first college summer break, with anticipation for thousands of questions. This world I have slowly begun to adapt to isn't as different as I had originally perceived. The idea that after high school, everything changes, is true at times, and others not so much.

These months away from the familiarity of home have shown me that in order to successfully live, you have to embark on certain journeys by yourself. All of the long nights contemplating my future brings me closer to seeing that new light. This chapter that I luckily have completed is something I have grown upon. I don't lead life with regrets and I wouldn't do it over, instead - I would inspire myself to look inward.

You really do start to find your own self when you leave your humble nest back home. My independence has motivated new opportunities and fundamentally shaped a new outlook on life. I've met hundreds of people, I've been introduced to true friendships and artificial ones. At times, I have called my dorm a safe haven, and on other accounts, a war zone.

Living in a double wasn't always the easiest, my roommate and I have been on a roller-coaster ride, and we're ending the year on a cheerful track. My suitemates and I are leaving knowing we have bonded more during finals week than the entire school year from broken garbage disposals, runaway hamsters, and random dance parties together. I've been fortunate to go on amazing trips with friends that have made this year more valuable. I have gained multiple close friends that I can count on at any time of day. I checked numerous activities off of my bucket list.

My planner has become my baby. I gladly finished the entire series of "Gossip Girl." My Monday morning donut tradition has been implemented into my brain. I've gotten over my annoyance of laundry, and realized how much of a clean freak I really am (thanks, Mom). Partying wasn't like the movies, and sometimes weekends with my pal Netflix was exactly what the doctor ordered. The classes I've taken have given me knowledge in forwarding my education. And most importantly, I've finally discovered my sense of happiness.

Happiness isn't a label to put on a good day; it's an attitude I carry with myself. My gratitude has increased tremendously over the year. Freshman year is now a past accomplishment, and as excited as I am to be over meal plans, dorms, and horrid registration times; I am proud of the student, the person, the woman, I have started to become.

It's not up to anyone else but ourselves to make each year count. Every individual has the power to change and be changed. People have impacted my life for the greater good, and surprisingly, even the ones that negatively affected me showed me that their behavior is their karma, and how I react is mine. We choose our happiness and learn from the misfortunes. Life is about paving the way for our own discovery. Until next time.