Written By: Erin McMahon
Dear Class of 2020,
Congratulations! You made it through all four years of high school. I’m sure you’re bummed to leave hallway drama, frozen cafeteria food, and 8 back-to-back classes behind you (I know I was – that’s why I ran out of school when the final bell rang!).
You are ready to begin a new chapter of your life. One where you can essentially be whoever you want to be. You’re moving on to a new place that’s full of new people who have never met you. While that can seem totally scary, it’s also completely exciting.
I remember the day that I left home. As pumped as I was to get out of there, it started out kind of sad. I’m an only child, so I know it wasn’t easy for my parents to pack my whole life away in their car, and it wasn’t easy for me to see my childhood home in the rearview mirror as we drove away. After we got to school and set up my room, it was time to say goodbye, and that was one of the scariest moments of my life. I had the realization that I truly was starting a new life. I really didn’t know anyone and certainly didn’t have plans for my first “college night.” I ended up sitting in my bed that evening and hoping it would get better.
The next morning, I woke up with a new perspective and the goal to meet at least one new person. A girl on my floor introduced herself to me, and we became friends instantly. I vividly remember the text that I sent to my parents that day – “Mom and Dad, I think I made a friend!”
From there on out, I made it a point to introduce myself to as many people as I could, try out new activities, and just enjoy this experience. I can honestly say that my freshman year of college was the best year of my life. I wish that for all of you as well.
