Four months ago, what feels like only a few weeks ago, I came to college to begin my first semester. Somehow, I blinked, and here I am, finishing fall semester this week. In these four months, I have learned so much, from the type of person I am, to what I want to do, and how to make it in college.

When I first arrived to campus, I felt scared, overwhelmed, and unsure of myself. After spending this time away from my home, from my family, from my friends, my independence has shown through even more so than it used to. In school, I have achieved the best grades that I ever have, despite the little devil I feel on my shoulder at times, telling me I am not smart enough to do well in college. I have proven to myself that I am more motivated than ever before to succeed and set myself up on the path that I want to be on to create the future I long for.

This first semester has also reaffirmed my desire to major in communication and pursue a career in journalism. The classes I have taken thus far in the major, as well as the professors I have had, have proven to me that this is the right fit for me. Thinking about the future and the opportunities and possibilities that lay before me, excites me tremendously.

Not only that, but I have learned that college can be hard. The types of habits you had in high school won't cut it here. Cramming for tests the night before, or not studying at all, will not cut it. You will have to invest more time into studying and assignments, but when you are learning subjects that interest you, and that are in your major, it is much easier to put in the time and effort. There will be moments when studying, or when writing a paper that is seven pages, where you will feel like you cannot possibly do it anymore, but you just have to push through and realize you are doing better than you think.

College also comes with a slew of lifestyle changes, especially freshman year. This first semester has made me shower with flip-flops, use a communal bathroom, live with a roommate, stay up way too late, eat particularly unhealthy, not have adults telling me what to, or when to do something, and also have a bit too much fun at times. Never again is there a time to live in a dorm, or to truly live this exact way ever again, so I have learned to embrace all that comes with this season of life, even the not-so-fun aspects.

Fall semester has shown me so much more about life, and myself, than I have ever learned before. I have never been a fan of change, it has always brought me a lot of anxiety and discomfort. However, this semester has proven to me that some of the best things in life come when they are outside your comfort zone. I am proud of myself and what I have accomplished this semester, and I look forward to spring semester, and the years to follow.

Go cougs!