I flash back to September 2016, my first semester at college. Then to September 2017, a new Sophomore, excited to get back to my favorite escape. The overarching theme that comes to mind when I think back to these times is growth and change.

Over the course of both semesters, I was faced with the immense need to change. I had been stuck in a rut and was unsure how to get out of it, I didn't know what steps I needed to take towards feeling better. I buried my head and thought "It will get better, I just need to get through the work and figure it out".

However, this was incredibly untrue, waiting for change to come is never the answer. I am so thankful that I grew, and became ready to handle reality and find a course for change. It was survival, not success. This is the beauty of coming into Sophomore year, the knowledge of the logistics of college. It is a time to really explore who you are as a person, coming into college we may exist in a shell. As we spend more time here, we get comfortable and want to have a life here.

In wanting to be here, I realized that I love my school. It is an amazing place, that has helped me to grow and be happy. I love my friends and the social sphere that is UMass, there is a certain element of fun to it. But I love the diverse and impactful community that thrives on this campus. It makes me want to do better for myself and my world, but it is also inspiring.

All around me, there are people doing incredible things. There are so many interesting opportunities on our campus to learn in a way that fuels our passion and be able to build our education in a way that is personalized. It is this freedom, that allows us to understand our power and path. As a sophomore, I have learned so many lessons, and I can confidently say this has been the best year of my life.

I have changed in immense and meaningful ways. It has been a time of self-exploration and finding a way to be happy in my academic life. I have also been able to work harder on my friendships and develop a group of people who support me and are healthy to have in my life. It is important to work to find our place and seek change in our society.

UMass has helped me to reach my purpose, and find the mark that I want to leave on this world. This semester has been on an upward climb, and I am so thankful for the people and the memories I have been given.