So many things come to mind when I think of faith. I think of its power and its capability to change so many peoples' lives. I think of the many church services I have sat in over the past 19 years learning as much as I can about God in order to grow in my faith.

I think of our amazing God that we have who is watching over our every move making sure we are following the path He has set out for us. I also think of the many challenges I have faced throughout my life and how my relationship with God has been the one thing keeping me going.

As I have gone through my first year of college, my faith has been tested almost every day. I have been faced with many temptations that have led me to rely on God to lead me down the right path. This year has definitely challenged me more than I ever thought, but through God, I have been able to conquer everything that has come my way.

The main thing I have learned this year is that I can't just sit back and wait for God to show me the way. I have had to actively seek a relationship with Him and do everything I can to learn more about him.

I have had to pray harder than I ever thought that I could and open up to Him about everything going on in my life to seek guidance.

Starting over at a new church was so terrifying considering I have been going to the same Methodist church in my hometown for pretty much my whole life.It was challenging to connect with God in a new environment while listening to a different preacher and singing different songs. Although my new church is so much different than my old one, I really think I have grown so much in the short time I have been in Oxford, Mississippi.

Without God, my first year at Ole Miss would be so different and I can't imagine how alone I would be feeling. Through all of the hardships that I have faced here, God has been the one constant thing and I have kept my chin up knowing that He loves me unconditionally.

I am still challenged every day and know that I will continue to be, but because I have a strong relationship with Him, I know I will be okay and end up where I need to be.