Being a College Freshman is Like…
There aren’t too many times in life when you can enjoy a fresh start. Being a college freshman is one such life experience. Packing up and moving to a different state, community, and atmosphere forces new perspectives and quick adaptation. Even as I type these words, I’m six hours away from all that is familiar, and very aware that my life has drastically changed in the last three weeks. While this change is hard to describe, finding similar illustrations brings some clarity to the adventure. In fact, when compared to other life experiences, braving college begins to feel less foreign.
Being a college freshman is like holding the Olympic flame at its final destination. I am sure most of us enjoyed the thrill of watching the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Paris. My favorite part is watching the Olympic flame make its way through the streets and waiting with anticipation until it licks the final cauldron, finding its resting place and serving as inspiration for glory-seekers. The Olympic torch travels thousands of miles through hundreds of hands with the singular goal of reaching its final destination. Like the torch, I am the recipient of incredible wisdom and inspiration that has been passed on to me over my short lifespan. Equipped with quality classical Christian education and encouraging mentors, I have a burning desire to fan the flame and humbly light the path of learning that lies before me.
Being a college freshman is like walking through a mirror maze. One of my favorite ticketed experiences is the race through the mirror maze; however, I usually exit these reflective hallways with battle scars. The warped shape of the mirrors distort images and force me to navigate an uncertain environment. The life of a new student can follow much of the same uncertainty. The first few weeks of settling in are exciting, but they can also be deceiving. Just when you think you have it figured out, you realize you’re headed in the wrong direction and an alternate route must be explored. I am always navigating the new adventures that college offers, finding my way through assignments and conversations while anticipating bends in the road.
Being a college freshman is like becoming a first-time voter. Affixing your signature to the official poll book and casting your first ballot brings an incredible sense of responsibility. As a young girl, I observed my parents on many occasions as they cast their votes. Now, as a first-time voter, the choice is mine alone. Likewise, college life beckons a voting booth of independent decision-making and discovering your own beliefs and choices. With this responsibility comes excitement and a little trepidation. Responsibility is ultimately the cornerstone for successful leadership. By taking charge of education and prioritizing engagement in campus life, I can truly seek to be a Christian leader who changes the world.
On second look, life as a college freshman really isn’t all that new. As I step into this next chapter of my life, I desire to seek the guidance and leadership of the One who has ordered my steps thus far, trusting in His provision as I embrace this fresh start!
