The Final Semester
When I started college, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life.
All I knew is that my life was about to change dramatically. 18-year-old Abbey even hated writing (which is so ironic, right?).
Now, here we are: last semester of senior year. Only nine credit hours stand between me and graduation.
As I think back to my first year, I remember how broken I was. I knew something was wrong, but I didn’t know how to address my mental health. I was insecure, terrified and completely overwhelmed.
Gotta say, there was a lot of soul searching over the years. From relationships to my own self-identity, Auburn is where I truly found myself. I will forever be thankful for the amazing people I’ve met along the way.
So, I thought it would be fun to go through a list of things I’ve learned in college about myself and life. (So tender, I know.)
When you’re 18, you literally have no idea what you’re doing.
I remember my first time living on my own, and I had no idea how to cook, grocery shop or manage my time. Literally.
While I still suck at time management, I at least know how to cook. If I’m feeling crazy, you may even see me make a cake from scratch. Just girlboss things, you know.
But seriously, college is where you truly figure out how you want to live. It’s a time to experiment with cooking, learn new things and actually clean your house. (Yeah, I may still suck at cleaning the house, but you get the idea.)
College isn’t meant to be comfortable.
THIS.
Growing up, I was surrounded with like-minded people who all believed the same things. When I got to college, I met people who had completely different beliefs than mine. This was amazing and life-altering for me.
It helped me question my values and truly figure out what I believe (instead of what I was told to think). It also showed me the world is unique and everyone’s experience is important.
Different perspectives are key in growth. In fact, I think listening to people’s beliefs and stories is what led me into journalism in the first place.
Mental health is more important than I thought.
Growing up, I always felt the need to ignore my emotions. Instead of expressing myself, I bottled everything up until it exploded.
I didn’t even realize how sad and anxious I was until I truly started working on my mental health. I mean, having three undiagnosed mental illnesses did a number on me. When I actually got help and medicated, I slowly started to love myself and life again.
It’s okay to stay in.
High school me always had to have plans. Every night, I’d be doing something. College made me realize it’s okay to take time for yourself.
I used to always feel bad if I didn’t have plans; I thought I was alone. Now, I love spending time with myself. It’s okay to slow down and relax. In fact, it’s crucial to take time for yourself.
You have to choose friends wisely.
Be kind to everyone, but you have to really choose your friend groups wisely. The people around you change you, even if you don’t think they do. Have people who lift you up and encourage you to follow your dreams. It’ll spark a drive you never thought you had.
Take a psychology and sociology class.
Literally life changing. I took one psychology class freshman year, and now I’ll be graduating with a minor. Some of the classes aren’t easy, but the payoff is so worth it. My psychology classes were what made me get help in the first place. I’m telling you— you won’t regret it.
It’s completely normal to be scared of graduating.
No one knows what they’re doing. Almost all of my friends are clueless about the next step, and that’s okay.
It’s funny to think about because this is the same reaction we had entering college. Now look at us. While change is terrifying, remember it’s also exciting. You’re about to gain new experiences, learn new things and discover more about yourself.
Do what you’re passionate about.
So many people pick a major or career path to just make money, and it’s sad to see. Do I know my journalism major probably means I’ll be broke? Yeah, but at least I’m excited to go to work every day.
Sometimes, the path you want to take won’t be easy, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be worth it. Go for it.
So, there you have it: a few nuggets of wisdom from your fellow college senior. It’s time to embrace the unknown and find your way. I’m cheering you on.
Sincerely, Abbey
Photography: Abbey C.