As I reflect on my first year of college, bittersweet feeling overwhelms me. I had no idea I would fall in love with Columbia, Missouri, and I'm beginning to realize how sad I am to leave for the summer. I can honestly say this past school year has been one of the best in my entire life. The memories I created during my freshman year here at Mizzou will forever have a special place in my heart. I've had a lot of ups and downs this year, but I'm incredibly grateful for the lessons I've learned, and how much I've grown as a person. College has taught me so much, and I'd love to give you a glimpse of the things I've learned and the experiences that have made my life worthwhile.

Like most freshman, I was very timid when I arrived at Mizzou. I was nervous about making new friends and living on my own. I really had no idea what to expect. The only thing I knew was that my life would change. I was okay with that though. I actually was eager for change. I wanted to leave high school behind and start fresh somewhere new. I was tired of the same old boring routine in my day to day life. I craved something new and exciting, so I embarked on a journey to create that life for myself. I didn't realize how much I'd learn on this new adventure.

My freshman year sparked my passions and goals.

Coming into college, I somewhat had an idea of what I wanted to do with my life, and the career path I wanted to follow. I knew I wanted to major in Psychology. I loved helping people and wanted to incorporate that into my future job. Not only did Mizzou confirm my plans, but my love and excitement for education and the science of Psychology grew deeper than ever before. I finally was taking classes that I enjoyed and I had never been more excited about what my future entailed. I thank Mizzou for helping me discover my true passions.

I met my best friends.

As cliche as it sounds, I met an amazing group of friends this year that I wouldn't trade the world for. I didn't know I needed these people in my life, but they arrived exactly at the perfect time. Each of my friends has impacted me in such a unique and special way. They each bring something different to the table, and I value the relationships I have with all of them. I'm thankful our paths have crossed and that Mizzou brought us together.

I learned to open up and that's when I became the best version of myself.

College was a year of growth for me. I met friends that brought out a side of me I didn't even know existed. I began to feel free and worry less about what people thought of me. I saw my confidence grow and I began to love who I was. While I was somewhat shy in high school, I learned that I have an outgoing personality that could be impactful in any situation I encounter. I thank Mizzou for helping me finally start to become the person I am meant to me. And although I'm sad to leave, I know Mizzou has three more amazing years in store for me.