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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Utica chapter.

Congratulations on graduating from college and starting the next chapter in your life. I’m not sure what you are currently doing but how’s graduate school? If you didn’t end up going, that’s fine and I completely understand. Who knows, you may have gotten a great job that you have always wanted.

The most important advice I would give is to always follow your dreams.If you did end up going to grad school, I know you are working hard to get your masters. Just know that I will be your biggest cheerleader in everything you are doing now.

I do want to know, are you still stressing out over things you can’t change? I wish there was some way I could change things happening now in my life. If things get hard, just know that you are strong and can get through it. I also hope you have stopped doubting yourself and are truly happy. Also, I hope you are more outspoken, something I can’t seem to be. There are times when I can say what is on my mind, but it can be hard sometimes too. So, no pressure.That probably made you laugh because you know it’s true. Also be careful about the people you let into your life.  Not everyone wants what’s best for you. Some will smile in your face just to talk about you.I will not say every one that comes in your life is a snake, there are some people that genuinely want to be in your life.I currently have friends now that I know I can trust and will always have my back. I do hope whatever year it is that you are reading this, that they are still in your life.

Are you still single? If not who is he, what’s his name, and where did you meet? If you are still single that’s okay. The right one will eventually come along, and I hope he is able to make you super happy, because you deserve it. Never rush into anything if you are not ready, because you are amazing chica.

The only other piece of advice I will give you, is to always appreciate what life has to offer and live it up. Travel and visit all the countries you have always wanted to see, and always be open to trying new things. Life is too short to hold back all the time.

I love you lots and stay true to yourself at all times. Don’t change who you are to accommodate someone else’s expectations.Always know that you are awesome, beautiful, intelligent, strong, and Loved.

Sincerely and with love,

Your Present Self

Meet Chantelle, I am Chantelle,currently a Junior at Utica College majoring in Public Relations and Journalism to receive my Bachelors of Science degree. I am the treasurer for the Residence Hall Association at Utica College, in which i help students to improve the environment of their residence halls by fundraising to bring enjoyable and inclusive activities to residents.I believe that helping to improve the residence halls will allow students to not only appreciate, but respect their living spaces. I work in the Writing center as a tutor. I am a member of The National Society of Leadership and Success and a sister of Theta Phi Alpha.
Meet Bianca, I am currently a Junior at Utica College in Utica, NY.  I am a Criminal Justice major with a concentration in Homeland Security.  Crime investigation has always been something that interests me.  I’m dedicated and passionate and it’s hard for me to quit things. I get that from my father so don’t hold it against me- he was a veteran and police officer for 20 years.   Growing up in a family centered around law enforcement has helped guide me in this direction, and I will forever be grateful.  After graduation I intend to continue on to law school where I can further my education in hopes of becoming a criminal defense lawyer and later on a District Attorney.  An interesting fact about myself is that I found the passion to be a criminal defense lawyer from watching the O.J. Simpson case.  The facts and conspiracy theories evoked a whole new passion behind criminal investigation that I intend to use in my future.  One of my most prominent moments in my writing career was when I wrote for an online magazine and had my most prevalent article hit 1.6k shares.  I believe in treating people with the same kind of respect and manners you would expect in return, and in a way it has helped shaped my expectations in life.   When you first meet me I won’t be the loudest in the room or the center of attention, but I will be intently listening to everything you say, for what you have to say may have a purpose. I believe in purpose. I believe that everyone is here to help you grow into who you are today and who you will be tomorrow.