How many things can change in one year? Well for starters, I have a new address, new friends, new living situation, new workout schedule, and I guess in general, a new life. I feel that within the first year of college, my life has made leaps and bounds in differences and progression, and it hasn’t even been a year, only about seven months, right? Who knew so much could change in such a short time.
In these past few days, I’ve been thinking about how I used to feel about coming to college and all of the unanswered questions I had. I was so excited but equally nervous, and just had no idea what to expect. Upon the completion of my first year, I realize that all of my emotions, although natural for an incoming freshman, were just silly. There was no reason to be nervous, QU became my home the moment my parents left on move-in day and I felt comfortable right away.
If someone asked me this time last year where I would be now I don’t think I would have guessed right. Granted, I knew I was coming to Quinnipiac, but I had no idea what it really had in store for me. The new (and at times crazy) things I never thought I would do, the people I now consider my family, and the lessons I learned. No, I never could have guessed it last year.
I can safely say that my first year at Quinnipiac has been the best year of my life. I’ve pushed myself, not only academically but socially, all while adapting to and embracing my new surroundings. I’ve accomplished and experienced so many new things, and gained a new perspective on life in general. I feel as though I have changed for the better.
For the most part I’ve managed to stay on top of my work, staying organized with my planner that has never left my purse and at the same time I’ve managed to have an amazing amount of fun. Whether it was a night in New Haven or hanging out on campus, every weekend I’ve always had a blast. It is no wonder no one wants to leave college.
In high school and younger years, our priorities differ. Situations both positive or negative that seem so significant at the time are really just petty and miniscule. As time goes on we learn what is important in our life; our family, our friends, our motivation to do well, the things that matter. From a young age till now, this list has evolved as we learn more about ourselves over time.
Going home this summer will be nothing similar to any other summer. Even being home for winter and spring break felt strange and even a little unnatural. I’ve established my life here at Quinnipiac, and I feel that being home just throws my life out of wack. Don’t get me wrong, I love my home and family, and being from New York I miss being surrounded by all Yankee fans, but I’ve gotten so used to my new way of life that I don’t want to leave it, even if it is just for a few months.
When people say time flies, they’re not kidding. I feel like it was “just yesterday” the move-in crew was putting all of my belongings into my new home. Seriously, where did the time go?
I guess I can say the most important lesson I’ve learned is to embrace everything that comes your way. Take life one day at a time and don’t let the seemingly endless amount of work bring you down. With my first year of college almost at its end, I appreciate life and take every day here with happiness and appreciation knowing that this year and the next three are and will be the best years of my life.
