Two days ago I officially began my second year of college.

One year ago I had no idea what I was doing at college.

Growing up, you start to realize that one year can make a huge difference whether it be physically, mentally, emotionally, or relationally. I’ve found that the saying “I’m not the person I was a year ago” applies to many college students who transition from freshman to sophomore year.

Here’s what I realized had changed for me:

1. I’m more an ambivert than an introvert

Talking to people I don’t know has become a lot less scary! My cheeks don’t turn as red, I speak up when I want to, and can hold a conversation without feeling too awkward. I do prefer time alone to “charge my batteries” but large groups of strangers are less intimidating than they seemed to be a year ago.

2. I’m comfortable being myself

As a freshman, you have a blank slate before you. You can be whoever you want, and it is often tempting to be similar to people you hang around with or to be someone you think would be more likeable rather than being yourself. Within this past year I learned about myself and learned it’s more fun being myself!

3. I am less nervous about taking risks

Taking chances on good things can lead to really cool stories! Last year it took a while before I felt brave enough to really step outside my comfort zone. But once you take the step you can never look back, and it makes life more interesting.

4. I embrace imperfections

We are not called to be perfect humans. I and others aren’t always going to do the right thing or say the right thing and that is O.K. Go with the flow. Have mercy.

5. I prioritize my health

I was given this body, so I might as well take care of it. Use it or lose it, right? A year ago, I ate whatever tasted best but wasn’t necessarily healthy, I didn’t always want to sweat it out in the gym, and I definitely did not equate health with self-respect. You do better in lots of aspects in your life if you just simply take care of yourself!

6. I don’t take my family for granted

When you don’t see your family every day or even talk to them every day, they become special to you. In high school, family was simply my mom, dad, and my little sister, whom I lived with all my life. Now, they are my greatest resource and support, not just my mom, dad, and little sister. They are the people that know me and love me the best, and it’s hard to take that for granted when you’re in the middle of a campus with thousands of people who don’t know you exist.

Sophomore year so far has been an unimaginable experience. I love coming to campus and feeling at home, reconnecting with friends from last year, and knowing that this whole college thing is way more than just an education. It’s an experience, a life-changing phenomenon, and who knows what could happen in these next three years at college!