Over a year ago, I stepped onto my beautiful Rhode Island College campus for Accepted Students Day and knew that this small Providence campus is where I really belonged. I had never been so excited to start something new and move into a brand new place where I knew no one.

High school was pretty rough for me. I often found myself feeling isolated and depressed. I spent more time with teachers than friends and even when I was in the band room, my home away from home, I felt alone. I was afraid to wear what I wanted, speak loudly, and for two years I didn't even feel comfortable enough to attend any homecoming dances. Despite these feelings, I cried my way through my graduation, reminisced about those four years with the few friends I had, and promised teachers I would come visit.

As soon as I found out when move in day was, I began counting down to the day I would finally meet my roommate and I would be on my own for the first time. I was so scared but so ready to start over. I could be who I wanted to be without the fear of being rejected or made fun of.

Although my first year at RIC hasn't been everything I imagined, it was better than high school ever was. Sure, I didn't stay up until the sun was up drinking with friends. And maybe my experience as a resident wasn't all I wanted it to be. We won't even get into my goals for the fall semester because those weren't anywhere near met. But I learned more than Freud's theories and the structure of the brain (#PsychologyMajor). And I certainly learned more than the layout of the campus and what foods to avoid at the dining hall. I learned that it's OK to eat alone and walk to class alone. I learned that I can wear pretty much whatever because no one really cares (pajamas to class are not frowned upon). I learned that you don't need a group of friends to be happy but one person is really enough. Most importantly, I learned who I really want to be and I'm making it a reality.

In my short nine months at RIC, I have had life throw a massive curveball called pregnancy, but I have fallen in love with that curveball and I can't wait to meet my daughter. I have found "my people" (shoutout RIC Odyssey crew), and I've become more comfortable with myself and my life. I became friends with someone who I'm pretty sure is my platonic soulmate and together we walked the beach at sunrise after a night of Denny's and driving and together we complained about the classes that we actually showed up for. I laughed. I cried (a lot) and I spent a lot of time wondering how I'll ever make it through. But I'm determined to get that diploma and prove myself wrong more than anyone. When I was younger, I never thought I would graduate high school let alone college. I'm determined to prove myself wrong.

Freshman year went by so fast, but I'm so excited for what's to come in the next few years. I'll see you in August, RIC.