Post-Freshman Year Reflection

A journey is something I never want to stop taking, for life itself is a continuous journey. A journey can be an educational pursuit, a romance, a long-desired trip, a newfound spiritual purpose, accomplishing an emotional or physical barrier, or just becoming a better you. No matter what journey you take, each one prepares you for the next phase in your life. Phases—there are numerous phases, stages, or cycles in one’s life—are implemented through a change one encounters. After this past year on my journey post-high school, I have entered the phase of my college years. While I am learning new material, living on my own, providing for myself, and becoming an adult, it is important to recognize the huge milestone this year has been as I have transitioned into a new phase, a new year, and a new me. With this new beginning in college, while also learning the military culture for the first time, I have grown up in many ways maturely, but I have also learned what is expected of me and how to become the truest version of myself. With more self-discipline, more responsibilities, and more finances, I have learned to balance my education, my work, and my own personal life, along with learning when to say “no” and focus on my own well-being. This past year in college has been an amazing journey, to say the least, as I have developed some of the best friendships of my life. My roommates were challenging at times, but ultimately my new family away from home, and I could not have asked for a better experience. They not only opened my eyes to the new fashion trends, habits, and ways of life from the different north-eastern states, but they have also taught me how to be real to others and to myself. Little did I know I would end up meeting my best friend, of whom I went to Cancun, Mexico with, who has encouraged me to strive for the best and never settle for less than what I deserve, whether it be with boys, grades, or with life experiences. She has truly inspired me, which is one of the reasons I will be studying abroad in Italy in the following months. I truly believe everyone’s life is in a constant journey, as mine has unfolded in ways I never dreamed possible. While this is a personal reflection of my past year and journey in college, I believe other college-aged students and/or young adults would be able to relate as everyone encountering life post-high school for the first time has embarked on a life changing journey, one of stories, memories, and amazing experiences. ​