Since coming to West Chester, I have learned so much about myself. Whether that is academically or personally. When I graduated from high school, I thought I knew everything about myself. I truly believed that I knew myself most deeply and authentically that I possibly could. Though in reality, that was the farthest thing from the truth. I soon realized that no matter how old I get, I am always learning something new about myself, which is honestly both scary and beautiful.
Growing up I dreamed of being a marine biologist. I have such an interest in marine life, especially coral reefs. I dreamed of exploring the ocean and also being a part of the people who choose to save it. When I applied to West Chester, I applied as a biology major. I was so excited to do something I loved. My first semester of university was really life changing. I got to meet so many people and finally live on my own. Though soon after the end of my first semester, I realized that Biology wasn’t really for me. I was honestly heartbroken. This was my dream for who knows how long and now it’s gone. I realized that chemistry and math was never something that I enjoyed, which were also mandatory courses for a Bio major. Though that definitely did not change my love for the ocean and wildlife. I thought back to my favorite parts of my science classes in high school and realized it was always the researching and writing papers that were my favorite. I was actually good at it. I soon understood that even if I don’t become a biologist, who says that I can’t write about what I love. The next semester I declared myself an English major—my family was very shocked, though thankfully really supportive. I think that they always saw my love for writing. I am now almost two years into my major and it is the best decision I have made for myself. I have always had a passion for writing and since switching majors, I have had such an amazing time learning. My academics are way less stressful and much more enjoyable when doing something I truly love.
While many people may have similar stories, this isn’t so much about school and what major you want to follow. This is about understanding yourself and following what you love. I realized that I can do what I love, just in my own way. You also don’t have to be good at everything, I learned that the hard way. You’re allowed to make mistakes, you’re also allowed to learn from them. There is no timeline to understanding yourself. Through this whole process, I realized that I deserve things that I actually want. The people and things that did not benefit me and only brought me negativity were definitely not worth having in my life any more. With that being said, do what you love, and don’t let anyone change your mind.