As the first week of classes are finishing up, I suddenly sit back and realize that this was my last first week of school in my college career. It’s the last time I’ll have my “first” day of school, it’s the last time I’ll have to sit through syllabus days, and it’s the last time I’ll have to play icebreakers in my classes to get to know my classmates (thank goodness!).

Not only am I surpassing my last moments walking through the Allendale and Pew campuses as a Grand Valley student, but I come to the sad realization that in 9 short months I will no longer hold the title of GVSU Student, but rather GVSU alumni. I’ll attend my last football games and tailgates as a student, and I’ll perform in my last routines as a member of GVSU Dance Troupe. I will no longer attend GVSU events, or be part of the numerous clubs and organizations that have kept me involved for the past four years.

As I reflect on all of my experiences leading up to my final year, I’ve realized a few things I’ve learned along my journey that may be worth sharing.

Don’t be afraid to try something new.

In fact, it could be the very thing that could change your life. Being involved with all of the organizations and clubs Grand Valley has to offer has blessed me with some of the most amazing people in my life.

Grades do not define you.

Sure, they may be a part of why you don’t get into graduate school but may I just say that all classes and professors are different. It took me a long time to realize that every professor looks for something different, and it’s important to understand what each of them are looking for. You may come across some you don’t like, and you may come across some who will influence your life forever. That B+ you got in the class you tried so hard to ace will not determine your entire future, remember that.

It’s OK to be scared.

Coming to school and being away from my family and friends may have been one of the hardest decisions for me, but one I am so proud I made. I was scared of change and moving forward with life, but what I needed to realize is change is inevitable. We may be scared, but it helps us become stronger in the long run.

Don’t skip class.

You’re paying thousands of dollars for one class, so skipping it should always mean something. Your professors likely will not care if you aren’t in class, but it’s definitely not worth falling behind and playing catch up.

It’s OK to not have everything figured out.

When I first came to Grand Valley I was a General Business major, with no sense of direction on what I wanted to do with my life. After meeting with amazing advisors and surveying all of my options for different studies, I chose Exercise Science with hopes of attending graduate school for Occupational Therapy. It’s certainly OK to not be sure of where your life is heading. Take the opportunities life hands you, and go figure it out.

Have fun.

When I first started college, I promised myself I would spend every night studying and doing homework, going to bed early and never going out. I soon realized that staying in and studying all night was not giving me the whole college experience I expected to have. So I made friends, and went out and had the fun I deserved to have. Sure, there is a point of maybe having too much fun and neglecting your studies, but don’t be afraid to go out every once in awhile. Meet new people, make memories, and experience all the college life has to offer.

As I look forward to a year of many lasts I’m sure I’ve neglected to mention, I can’t help but be ecstatic for all the new adventures and experiences my life has in store. I have met some of the most amazing people at a place I am so beyond proud I was able to call home for the last four years, and I only hope I have the opportunity to keep them all in my lives no matter where we each may go. I have had some of the best professors who have been nothing short of amazing, and have been part of some of the greatest organizations on campus. I can’t ever seem to thank everyone and everything that has made this place so wonderful these last four years. I’m so blessed to proudly say I will be a Laker For A Lifetime, Go Lakers!!