Dear Freshman Year,

I can't believe you're already over, it feels like I just moved in a few weeks ago. Surely you had your highs and lows, but overall I came out a stronger person because of all of the experiences you gave me. I just wanted to take a second to give you a cliché thank you for all you've taught me this year.

1. For giving me a fresh start

After leaving the simplicity of high school, starting college was both scary and exciting. This was the first time I was ever on my own for more than a week. However, this was my opportunity to start over and create my own little life the way I wanted it to be.

2. For teaching me how to manage my time

The workload in college is definitely much larger than the amount of homework you get in high school. Homework takes up a huge bulk of your time, but it's also important to make sure you take some time to do things that make you happy so you don't get overwhelmed. I've discovered that spending time with friends or watching your favorite show are the things that make the stresses of college a little more manageable.

3. For making me step out of my comfort zone and try new things

Everyone tells you to take advantage of the opportunities that come with college. I didn't think Greek life was for me and I didn't expect to get involved in any other clubs/organizations because I didn't think I would have time. I couldn't have been more wrong. Once I decided to step out of my comfort zone, I have surrounded myself with some amazing individuals that I probably wouldn't have met otherwise in both Greek life and other campus organizations. My new tactic is "you never know until you try" because some of the best things in my life came from areas outside of my comfort zone.

5. For making me realize it's okay to not be okay

Certainly my first year of college was not all sunshine and roses. I had some really dark moments of homesickness and other mental struggles. I didn't adjust to college life as quickly as I imagined I would and it really took a toll on my emotions. In these moments, I discovered that it's okay not to be okay because your moments of pain make you realize who your true friends are. There were many instances where I found myself crying on my best friend's shoulder. The book of Ecclesiastes tells it best, "two are better than one, for if they fall one will life up the other."

6. For allowing me to be independent for the first time

Your first taste of independence is a wonderful feeling. However, I quickly learned that with independence comes responsibility. I definitely matured a lot during my freshman year even though "adulting" was not my favorite.

7. For challenging me

Freshman year challenged me in more ways than I could count, but I surely learned a lot from these challenges. I learned how to cope with drama, how to stand up for myself, how to put others first, how to stand up for others, and how to always follow my heart. I definitely came out on the other side of these challenges stronger and I feel like these lessons will be immensely valuable in every aspect of my life.

8. For allowing me to work on myself

Overall, I think freshman year changed me for the better. I was able to try so many new things and discover more about who I am, who I'm not, and most importantly, who I want to be. I still have a lot of work to do, but freshman year definitely allowed me to grow in more ways than I could count.

9. For giving me my people

Every person you meet in life serves a special purpose. A lot of the relationships I've formed in college have taught me some very valuable lessons. I learned that friendships change, but the real ones will always stick with you. Meeting my people was the most amazing feeling in the world. I appreciate all of you so much and I will forever cherish the memories we've made together during freshman year. Here's to many more.

10. For making me realize how truly blessed I am

Leaving my family was one of the hardest things I've ever done. I honestly had no idea how I was going to get through the year when I first moved in. Looking back, freshman year made me realize that I have people who love me in many places. From my family, to my college friends, to my old high school/college friends, I am so grateful to have pieces of my heart in so many places.

Here's to a new year. Thanks for all of the memories.

Love,

A Sophomore College Student