Advice for the Future

Dear freshman,


First of all, Congratulations on making it this far! You’ve arrived towards what you’ve been working for these past years! Whether you are committed to a certain career path or remain undecided- don’t panic because you are not alone! The transition from high school to college is different for everyone, and the journey could be quite frightening with many unknowns. But that’s also what makes it so exciting and full of possibilities.

Just last year I was in your shoes, thinking where I was going to fit in or if it was going to be more stressed than all my high school years. I can assure you it went well beyond my expectations. Although I graduated with a great education, I was unsure how I would translate my skills and experiences to an educational career path that was right for me. Now as I reflect on my past experiences, I’d like to share some crucial, helpful advice that I hope you will also find useful as you enter this next chapter in your life.

In today’s world, it is as simple as putting your headphones and blasting music to zone out or even letting your phone dictate your life. But I greatly encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and meet people. Get involved with clubs or programs in which you have similar interests or just start a conversation with someone in class. You never know who you’re going to meet, and what they might contribute to your life.

From time to time, you will make mistakes, and that’s ok. Whether it’s choosing the wrong class or even the wrong major, the lessons learned from these mistakes will become your most valuable tools during your years in college and your life, in general. With that being said, it’s important to recognize and value your success, as well as failures. It is also more than okay to ask for help along the way, and this does not show weakness. By working with others and asking questions, you will be able to grow and focus more on your goals.

Some days are definitely going to be more difficult than others, but if you focus on your goals that are bigger than your fears and doubts, you will be able to accomplish anything. Remember that you have made it this far! You are about to begin a new chapter in your life that will, without a doubt, continuously challenge and shape you to become the person you want to become.


Sincerely,
A college sophomore