The Next Chapter
Well, it’s officially the end of my last week of college.
How weird is that?
I remember being so excited to come to Auburn and study graphic design, only to change my major two days into the fall semester. I remember writing my first article for Be Well Auburn and finding a passion for words. I remember when I wrote about the thing that scared me the most for everyone to see. I remember when I got accepted into the professional journalism program after months of stress and uncertainty. I remember it all.
How has it already been four full years? It’s crazy how time flies.
Now, I’m currently procrastinating my final projects. Got to finish in Abbey style, am I right? No assignment gets turned in early… we’ve known this.
People tell you college is the best four years of your life. I agree with this statement, but not in the way of happiness.
College is where you truly grow and challenge yourself. You find out your fullest potential. Most importantly: you find yourself.
At 18, I was a confused teenager unsure of the future or who I was. I had no idea what my values were; I was terrified. All I knew was that I could write a thesis paper in MLA format easily.
If I’m being totally honest, I cried almost every day my freshman year of college. I couldn’t let go of who I was in high school. I was also going through my first run-in with thyroid cancer.
You have to admit: it’s funny that thyroid cancer played such a big role in my freshman and senior year of college. Had to start and end with a bang I guess.
By 21, I found a solid group of friends I love dearly. I started understanding my political beliefs, and I met so many different people from different backgrounds. I learned so much about the world and myself.
I started to open myself up to people again. I got better at trusting others.
I’m not going to say I was “happy,” but I will say I was content and confident in myself. Life is like a roller coaster; no one can truly be 100% happy all the time.
Am I over my fear of intimacy? Obviously not, but I am learning. I’ve grown tremendously, and I’m proud of myself for that.
In conclusion: thank you, Auburn. Thank you for showing me my potential and worth. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience, and I am so grateful for all of the amazing people I’ve met over the past four years.
First thing’s first: I’m going to kick my thyroid cancer’s butt once and for all after graduation. I’m at the final steps for recovery, and I know I’ll be alright soon.
As for the future, there’s nothing but possibility and wonder. It’s scary, but I’m ready to see what’s going to happen next. And guess what? You guys will be riding with me every step of the way. It’s time to take on life. Are you ready?
Sincerely, Abbey
Photography: Zoe L.