Over the course of my undergraduate degree, which spanned four years, one crucial lesson I’ve learned is that change is never easy. Accompanied by uncertainty and anxiety, it has consistently pushed me out of my comfort zone. My transition from high school to university was particularly challenging. Now, as I approach graduation, I find myself in a situation reminiscent of that initial transition. Reflecting on this journey, I’ve realized the importance of acknowledging and being grateful for my accomplishments, a process that has helped me to embrace the forthcoming chapter of my life, overcoming my discomfort and initial resistance to change.
My relationship with change has always been complex. Preferring stability and predictability, I’ve never been particularly outgoing or adventurous, making even brief periods of transition challenging. Life’s significant milestones, like starting high school or reaching legal adulthood, often felt like stark reminders of getting older rather than opportunities for growth. My first year at Queen’s, overshadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic, was fraught with difficulties in making new friends, self-care, and adjusting to university life. I often dwelled on how different and distant my previous lifestyle seemed, rather than embracing the new experiences university had to offer.
However, a turning point came when I decided to fully engage in student life at Queen’s. I actively joined clubs and organizations that matched my interests, something I hadn’t experienced in high school. This helped me connect with people beyond my usual circle and encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone. Gradually, I began to appreciate the benefits of change, leading to a newfound happiness and sense of belonging at Queen’s, despite the distance from home.
As my time at Queen’s nears its end, there’s a part of me that is reluctant to leave behind the happiness and community I’ve found here in Kingston. Reflecting on my first-year experiences, I now understand that change, while sometimes daunting, can be incredibly rewarding when approached with the right mindset. Recognizing and embracing changes, even when they involve some loss, is vital. I hope that sharing my story will help others relate and find their own paths of growth through periods of change, just as I did.