I have learned a ton being here in college. I’ve learned about myself and my independence, my relationships, and how to manage life in general. Everyone has their own unique college experience and I think that’s what makes our college years so special and memorable. Being in a relationship with my high school boyfriend throughout my entire college career has been an amazing ride and I’ve learned so much about both of us. When I tell people I’m dating my high school sweetheart, I think they either understand that we must really be in love, or they’re just in shock. To be honest, my fifteen-year-old self never expected to be in a relationship in high school, let alone in college, so that just proved to me that things happen when they are meant to happen.
My first year of college, I decided to go to California. I had just turned 18 and was ready to go off on my own and have a new adventure. I grew up in a small town, so going to a brand new city for school was the most appealing option to me as a teenager fresh out of high school. I think that being brave and taking risks is an important thing to do whether you’re in a relationship or not. That’s one thing I really learned being out at school in California, and my boyfriend was so supportive of me and what I wanted to do. I really did have a great freshman year being in a new place, I learned SO much about myself and saw how independent and confident I really was. Of course, I desperately missed my boyfriend, as expected. Long distance relationships are hard, but not impossible. We were able to make the long distance work, but for various reasons, I decided to move back and continue my studies at the University of Utah.
Most people suspected that the reason I came back was because I missed my boyfriend, but that wasn’t the case. There were several factors that led me to transferring schools, too many to even name. Essentially I moved back, and have no regrets whatsoever. I will admit I was surprisingly homesick away for the first year, but I know that’s what I needed to do. I needed to get away, make new friends and visit new places. I don’t regret going to California for my first year of college because it was a learning experience for everyone, but it felt really good to be home and I just knew that’s where I wanted to be.
For any other young girls who are in relationships and going to college, you know how it is. Some people might doubt your relationship or tell you that you’re too young, so I just simply want to tell you that I understand. There’s always going to be people who don’t understand what you’re going through, but just because you’re young doesn’t mean you don’t know how you feel. I’m not saying to get married when you’re 20, but do what you feel is best for you. That’s what college is for! I wouldn’t have it any other way, and I know the guy I’m with is amazing for me. I hope everyone can find true love, and when you do, you just will. When you know, you know.