People always say that the first year of college is the hardest, but at Colegio every year is hard. Whether you are a freshman or you are about to graduate, you feel like life is coming at you at full speed. This year, for me, has been full of change and growth. Starting as a very depressed and shy freshman, I have been able to overcome most of my fears and work towards the future I hope to have. Change is another word for opportunity, and this girl has some suggestions for you!
1. Pursue every single opportunity.
As an English major I understand there aren’t as many opportunities on campus as I’d hope, but I have been blessed with the opportunities I do have. I have looked everywhere until I found the right ones that would give me a boost and knowledge for grad school. I joined some clubs, started working with Her Campus and did an internship with the English Department, all of which can help me get to my ultimate goal. Here at Colegio there is a world of opportunities. Whether you enjoy writing, teaching, traveling, programming, etc., go out there and search for something you’re passionate about. Even if you don’t get the first few opportunities you apply for (internships, jobs, etc.) you will have gained experience and knowledge and, eventually, you will get the opportunity that is right for you.
2. Rejection will never hurt as much regret.
As 2015 ended, I became aware that even when you get rejected from a job or by a person, the most important thing that you take from that experience is courage. Because even when you feel that you failed, at the very least you tried and you learned how to handle a potentially disastrous situation. Also, when you get that out of your system, you can leave it behind for good.
3. Balance your time well.
As Colegio students, this piece of advice can be difficult to follow. We all have 300 things we should be doing at any given time of the day. But it is also very important to have a considerable amount of “me time.” We only have one life, don’t give up every single week’s jangueo to stay home; it’s only fair that you at least go once a month. Also, it is so important to spend time with friends and family. We don’t know how long we have left with them, and we should make the most out of the time we have.
4. Eliminate toxic people from your life.
Sometimes it is easier said than done. The people who don’t encourage you or help you reach your goals, be happy or make you want to be a better person, should not be in your life.
5. Be happy by your own standards.
Simple, but effective. Don’t do anything to please anyone or for the money (especially when picking your major). Do what you love, and success will follow.
6. Discover and embrace who you are.
College is the place and time to discover who you truly are, don’t be afraid of what you might find. Embrace who you are, and never change for anyone other than yourself.
The best is yet to come!