When I decided to move away for college, I was excited to become accustomed to an unfamiliar place, meet new people, and try different things. I knew that college would be a turning point in my life, but most of what I have learned was not necessarily anticipated. I think it is safe to say that everyone experiences college differently; there is no one right way to go about it. Students in college may drastically differ in terms of where they are in their life, so it is natural to have varying perspectives.

For me, college has been a gateway of expansion regarding my identity and opportunities. It is only my sophomore year, and I feel as though I have evolved considerably from my younger, adolescent self since I left high school. The changes, new experiences, opportunities, and challenges have shaped where I am at this point in time. I have learned a great deal; not only knowledge acquired from attending lectures and reading textbooks, but also things that could have gone unnoticed:

1. I value my education.

Most people would probably say that the worst part of college is actually having to go to class and do the work, and yes, these requirements are often stressful and can heighten anxiety. However, the education I have received has genuinely helped me grow as a person. I not only have acquired practical expertise to guide me academically and for a future career, but have also grown in cognitive depth and complexity. I enjoy learning various topics, gaining insight on subjects that have never interested me before, and seeing how they intertwine with the world as I know it.

2. There is beauty in diversity.

When attending a university, you come in contact with many individuals of diverse beliefs and backgrounds. Personal interests vary regarding majors and career paths, organizations and involvements, hobbies, and likings. I also attend a university with diverse demographics; different ages, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religions, political affiliations, etc. I soon realized that individuals with varying identities will help introduce new perspectives and ideas, and it is enlightening to have this exposure. It is honestly inspiring to be a part of a community that celebrates the individual as their unique self, despite their differing characteristics and values.

2. You have to work for what you want.

College will work you harder than you ever have before; you will be challenged and pushed to limits beyond expectation. It is essentially important to realize there are opportunities few and far between that will be handed to you. This being said, challenges are ultimately a fact of life. I have learned that with success comes ambition, dedication, time, and quite honestly, a great amount of stress. However, when you reach a goal, whatever that may be, I have learned that the “blood, sweat, and tears” are truly worth it.

4. Every second counts.

In college, it does not feel like there are enough hours in a day to accomplish what you need. Time seems to fly and before you know it, each week, semester, and year passes you by. I have learned that time management is key for preventing an overload of stress, yet I have also come to appreciate each single moment that I have. Life is too short to waste your time and make nothing of it. One my favorite quotes was said by a wise man named Ferris Bueller:

“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once and awhile, you could miss it.”

5. Relationships are priceless.

I quickly learned upon arriving to college how precious my relationships are with family and friends. Leaving high school, I soon realized which friends were meant to stay in my life and which were meant to leave. I learned how important family is despite the miles between us; they will always have my heart, and will always be the reason I return home. In college, there are people for which I am beyond grateful that I have met and others, well, not so much. However, it is clear to me that each person I have come in contact with serves a purpose and the relationships I hold are ones that I will never forget.

6. I do not know everything.

At a young age, it is easy to think that you know everything you need in order to succeed. However, college has helped me understand that there is much more for me to see, so much to learn, and much more to experience and be a part of. When envisioning my future, I can easily dream of the ideal. However, college has also taught me that much is unable to be anticipated. This being said, I am open to learning more and seeing things from different perspectives, yet I have also found contentment in embracing the unknown.

7. I am excited to see where life is going to take me from here.

College has served to prepare me for what is next. Of course, the premise of going to college is to gain higher education and prepare yourself for a future career. Although, I have learned there are many ways in which your college years will help you mature and grow soulfully in order to prepare you for what comes next in life’s path. So, as stated before, I know that much of my future is unknown. However, based on what I have learned, achieved, and experienced so far, I am more than eager to see what comes next.