For two years, lived in Richmond, Virginia, and it was probably the best two years I've had in awhile. I never thought I would enjoy the city as much as I did. After taking a semester off from Longwood, I decided to work, go to school, and live responsibly doing adult-like things.

I was given a variety of job opportunities living in the city, which I loved because I got to work in many different fields of interests. However, I most enjoyed getting to make connections with so many people who were just like me. It makes going back even more enjoyable because I get to visit all my old friends.

If I had to choose my most favorite job, I would definitely say working at the Metro Richmond Zoo. This was an experience I will forever have memories of. Even though it was an hour away from where I was living, it was definitely worth the drive to see the animals.

Due to the fact that I chose to take a semester off from college, I decided to attend community college and take a few courses while working. I really enjoyed getting to know my professors and the small class sizes. It made learning a lot easier having the one to one contact with everyone. While attending community college, I did feel like it was easier to just be yourself and not be so stressed. It felt good being able to go to school, work, and hang out with friends while living at home.

Living in Richmond was also the first time I was responsible for paying major bills. At first, I was not happy about the idea of paying to live in an apartment, but it was just one of those things I had to get used to. It was a learning process I had to go through at a young age, which helped me become more responsible as a person today.

Soon after I started working, I was able to get a credit card, and learn all about spending money wisely. After I built up enough credit, I was finally able to buy a car and make car payments each month. At times, it was frustrating having all these bills just pile up, but it made me feel so independent about how to save and spend money. I started to feel more like an adult and realize more about the real world and what to expect in the years to come.

I will definitely miss the city life of Richmond. It was full of great opportunities and new friendships. It has taught me a lot about what it feels like to be an adult and what life will be like after I graduate.