These past few weeks have been filled with an endless array of academic challenges. Not only are we stressing about tests, papers, projects and presentations, but midterms are just around the corner. Quite frankly, it feels as if a dark cloud has covered the Wake Forest student population. Although those snow days allowed us to play hooky for a few days, the amount of make-up labs and added readings really only amplified our stress levels and made that dark and looming cloud a little more domineering. Recently, though, we’ve gotten our first glimpse into the warmer seasons. Each ray of sunshine has poked holes through the dark overhang and provided some much need beauty and optimism around campus.
These days of sunshine are a reminder that summer is approaching and, with that, our first year will soon be coming to an end. Despite how much I’m stressing about school right now, I am honestly saddened by this harsh reality. I’ll admit it, I am looking forward to no longer being that awkward freshman from Brooklyn (even though next year I may just be known as the awkward sophomore from Brooklyn). I feel that this year has taught me unforgettable life lessons and, in my nostalgic state, I thought I would share a few of these awkward moments that have brought about a great amount of unknown discovery and adventure.
Lesson #1: Always Be Yourself!
As I approached Wake Forest University during orientation weekend, I had packed in my luggage an overload of Southern clothing that I have barely worn. In only a few days, I realized that individualism is praised here at Wake Forest and, I did not have to conform myself to the Southern lifestyle to feel as if I belonged. Just imagine what this Brooklyn gal looked like wearing Vineyard Vines and Lilly Pulitzer – not a pretty sight. I realized then that I if I wore what I was comfortable in, my old converse and New York baseball cap, I would belong because I was being true to myself .
Lesson #2: Never Be Afraid!
I hope I’m not the only one, but I think that time has been moving incredibly fast recently. I have not had enough time to do basically anything – I blame time moving quickly for this unfortunate predicament and not my general lack of management and planning. Therefore, I think that every person should live in the moment and never let the fear of a risk keep you from taking it. Basically what I’m saying is life is short, so send that crazy text message or say “hi” to that boy you think is cute in class! I promise, these risks that you’re taking will be so rewarding, and worse case, you’ll get a funny story out of them.
I feel as if these lessons have been the most significant of my time here so far at Wake. Although I am looking forward into the future, I know that these next few weeks of this freshman year will be unforgettable. So get outside, enjoy the beautiful weather and these last few weeks of our first year!
Keep Studying,
Brooklyn xoxo