A couple of days ago it really hit me that I will be graduating college in the next five months. I remember when I was growing up the biggest aspiration I had was to graduate from college. I knew one day I would accomplish that goal, but it was always something that felt so far away. Now the time to be walking across that stage to receive my diploma is almost here, and I can’t even begin to describe all the emotions that I’m feeling. Those feelings got me thinking about what I thought these four significant years would be like when I was a senior in high school. If I could go back to enlighten my 17 year old self and give some advice to girls who are about to enter into their first year of college along the way, this is what I would say:
Follow your dreams.
Don’t be afraid of your strengths, dreams, questions, or insights. You are capable of anything that you set your mind to! The world is filled with so many opportunities that have your name written all over them, so just go after them.
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
Stepping out of your comfort zone is extremely nerve-wracking, but it’s also extremely necessary. Own the moments you feel the most uncomfortable because when you look back, those are the moments that you grew the most!
Friends will come and go.
It’s part of life. The friends that you make when you start college may not be the same ones you finish with, and that’s okay. Some friendships are only meant to last for a part of your life, while others are life-long. As that saying goes, “some people come into your life for a reason, some a season, and some a lifetime. However long it was, be grateful for the gifts you received from them.” Find friends that make you better, and vice versa. It’s an amazing thing to see your friends growing alongside you.
Don’t change yourself for a guy.
Trust me, it’s a complete waste of time. You should never have to change who you are to gain the attention of a guy. If you’re not careful, you could end up losing who you are in the process of it all. You are beautiful exactly the way you are. If a guy can’t see that, then he doesn’t deserve you in the first place! You deserve someone who will love you in spite of your flaws and imperfections.
Things will not always go according to your plans.
Along the way there will be many times where you feel like you’re on a never ending rollercoaster ride, but there will also be times where you feel like you’re on top of the world. Promise yourself that no matter what you’re feeling or going through, you’ll always keep pushing forward. Giving up is never the answer. The sun will rise every morning and you’ll be one step closer to reaching your goals.
Have fun!
Create memories that will last a lifetime. Try new things, go on road trips with your friends, save some money up to go see one of your favorite artists perform! College is an amazing experience that you will never forget!