If you went to a small high school like I did, you've probably had the same friends since preschool or even before. You were probably related to at least one person in your graduating class and your parents probably had the same teachers as you.

Then, you moved.

Yes, you graduated from there and you never had to be the new kid. But when you're a college freshman, you are automatically the new kid.

Thankfully, I got to grow up in the same community and have the same friends throughout school. My senior year was the best yet. I found an amazing group of friends and made plenty of memories with them. Unfortunately, as the school year came to a close, we realized that at the end of the summer we'd all be parting ways. All of us were going to different colleges, we would be the new kids in a world of friend groups that were already made.

I got to college and I clung to my roommate throughout orientation weekend. She had been there a week and half longer for band and had already made friends. Slowly but surely, I did too. In fact, my roommate and I have the majority of the same friends (shoutout to Hodge first floor).

I found my way in the sea of endless put together friend groups. Friends within my major, friends on my floor, friends at home. I'm surrounded by love and support that I could NOT be more grateful for.

I may only be in my second semester of college. I may still be a freshman and the NEW KID in your eyes. But in mine, I am no longer. No longer the new kid who knows no one and is for the first time in her life shy. I have grown my wings and I am ready to soar.