College life has been an exciting ride. I graduated from high school in 2021, which had its own set of interesting circumstances. Although I was able to have some of my senior year traditions, high school was far from normal. Most schools in my school district still had not approved proms, large-scale events, or a normal graduation. I truly graduated from my bedroom. I was a virtual student for pretty much my entire year with the only exception being senior testing and graduation. When Graduation came, I was aware that my world was about to dramatically change. Not only was I starting at a new school (which I had not done in four years), I was about to have readjust to being around people again. I was able to experience living in a dorm for the first time in my life. I was about to experience living apart from my mother. I was about to experience a new level of responsibilities.
As I reflect upon my freshman year at Kennesaw State, I could not be more proud of myself. As young adults, we often find ourselves trying to have all of life figured out. I was no different. The first few weeks of my first semester were terrifying. I wanted to be perfect at it all. I wanted to be the best in my classes, manage my best health/diet, and make the best friends. None of these things were happening, which sent me into a state of fear. What if college really isn’t meant for me? As time has gone along, I have learned to start practicing some grace with myself. I had to take a personal moment to acknowledge some very important facts. Not only did I just graduate from high school with numerous accolades, I had done it in the midst of a pandemic. I had moved into a dorm away from my family, created healthier routines for myself, slowly put myself out there, and covered my own expenses in the midst of a pandemic. This did wonders in terms of my mental health and allowed me to find my place on campus. My advice for anyone who is trying to adjust to the transition into adulthood is have some patience with yourself. It is amazing how extending love and grace to yourself allows you to get the best out of life.
