Ever since I was a little kid, I have always had to deal with anxiety. It affected my ability to learn like other kids who didn't have the problem I have. It made me feel left out, vulnerable, and not as intelligent as the other kids. Which is always a bad thing for anyone to feel.

The years went by and it got better, but I had to force it. Late nights studying, and always making sure I studied weeks before a test, if I knew when it was coming up.It didn't help that I also have Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Because when you have both of those conditions, things are a little tougher, you have to work a little harder to succeed. Which made me into the person I am today. I made my mental illnesses work for me.

It motivated me, to show people that i am as strong, confident and intelligent as the next person. I've been here at Olivet College for a month now, and I love it. The workload is completely different then high school, but with my anxiety, the stress has more of an impact on me. As the days went on, I wouldn't be as stressed, but a little voice in my head would say "What if this happens" even if it wasn't inevitable. I'm learning one day at a time, that things will get better, and that if i handle it correctly, my anxiety will become a little easier to handle, and that it is always okay to ask for help if you need it.

Always remember: you are not alone.