I remember being a junior in high school convinced that the only college I would be happy attending was Cornell. Cornell was the best, most beautiful, most perfect university and nothing would top it. I fell in love with Cornell when I was attending a summer program for a fashion portfolio design class, and actually cried when I had to leave after 3 weeks.

My parents even having the nerve to suggest other options would upset me. I always held myself to the highest standard: I wanted to get straight A's, be the captain of every sports team I was on, and always go the extra mile if I could. Settling for a college that I perceived to be considered "lesser" than my usual standard was a fear of mine during the university search and application process. I remember being so superstitious that I refused to buy apparel from a university I loved in fear that it would somehow jinx my chances of getting accepted. (Which I realize now is completely ridiculous.)

But something unexpected happened when I got rejected by my "dream school." I was not upset or thought lesser of myself. Instead, I felt a sense of relief. For me, the college process was a small way I found myself, so to speak. I learned more about my values and what I wanted for my future.

I learned to choose a school based on the program I wanted, the overall attitude and unity of the students, and where I fit as an individual — instead of the name on the sweatshirt.

Long before I received my (rejection) letter back from Cornell did I realize I was IN LOVE with Indiana University-Bloomington. I visited the campus in February for Kelley's Direct Admit Day for business students and felt at home. I had never truly understood what people meant when they told me that I'd "just know" where I belonged until then. When my best friends got accepted to their dream schools, I honestly expected to be a little jealous, but instead, I saw that each university fit them perfectly.

As I reflect back on my first semester here at IU I'm so happy I chose to be here. I've grown more than I realize in such a short period of time; I joined a business fraternity, attended my first college football game, and met some truly amazing people. (The Pizza X cheesy bread isn't too shabby either.) My "dream school" wasn't the right place for me because I didn't want to go there for the right reasons. I also realized It should not be about the "Ivy-League" status or the response you get when you name-drop the university. Instead, I found a place that has a rigorous business program that challenges me both professionally and personally, and allows me to grow into the person I'm meant to be.

And now, I couldn't see myself as anything other than a Hoosier.