As a student at Florida State University, the last four years have been a whirlwind of growth and self-discovery for me. Moving out of my parents’ house in 2020 marked the beginning of my journey into adulthood, and the challenges and lessons I’ve faced along the way have shaped me into the person I am today.
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in college is managing friendships and familial relationships from a distance. Being away from my family for the first time was tough, and finding the balance between staying connected and giving myself grace when things get busy has been a learning experience. Phone calls, missed connections, and the inevitable game of “phone tag” have all been part of this journey.
Another lesson I’ve learned is how to become a morning person (kinda). Despite never being a morning person, early classes and work commitments forced me to adjust to waking up early and starting my day on the right foot. While there are still days when I struggle to get out of bed, I’ve learned to laugh at myself and embrace the chaos of early mornings.
Additionally, I’ve had to navigate getting myself out of a funk when I’m feeling unmotivated or overwhelmed. Procrastination is a constant battle, but I’ve found ways to reset my mind and refocus on my goals, whether it’s going for a walk, journaling, or hitting the gym.
Balancing social life and school commitments has also been a challenge, especially when it comes to navigating the party scene in college. Learning to prioritize my education while still enjoying the social aspects of college has been a valuable lesson that will serve me well in the future.
As I prepare to graduate and move on from FSU, I am grateful for the lessons and experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. College has been a time of growth, self-discovery, and learning, and I am excited to see where the next chapter of my life will take me.