First Step Towards A New Life

Like any other teen freshly passed out from 12th grade, I too was figuring out my life and hoping that whatever I chose was right for me. I sashayed into the seminar hall inside the college building as instructed during the admissions procedure. I was all jitters and nervousness. As I stood at the door, I laid my eyes on numerous heads, some with curly hair, some with straight, some in ponytails and some with the strands slicked back. They were all about my age and so much like me, that made me calm down. I looked to the right to notice a small stage with some professors, the principle and a few seniors of my course. It was an environment both serious and welcoming. I took the nearest seat in the front so as to get to know as much as I could about how things worked around there. I hesitantly turned my neck and took a peek at a few people staring. It made me feel awkward and excited at the same time. Seeing the face of a girl with a kind smile right behind me, I decided to introduce myself. We talked for a bit, got know each other's names and interests, and suddenly I was much more relaxed. I settled down in my chair and five minutes later, I see a face I recognize come in with almost as much shakiness as me. What a surprise! My friend from our classes had joined the same college and the same course. We happily exchanged greetings and looked at each other with relief in our eyes. I had been lucky and it was such a good day. Further, I and the two friends I’d made continued to talk to others and make acquaintances which have now turned into family.

My college orientation is now a fond memory with a special place in heart. The shy and anxious me is gone. It is difficult to believe that a year has already passed so fast. College changed me for the better. I learned to stand up for myself and let go of things. I learned to respect others and myself as well. I learned to acquire knowledge to the maximum and to do what I want with absolutely no fear. Mostly, I found my closest friends there and being with them in class everyday makes everything so much easier.

Taking steps toward a new life can be the scariest experience ever, but it is very necessary and worth it. College helps you grow into the adult version of yourself that

you come to love and accept. The difference in cultures between school and college is a huge leap that teaches you so many things. You are no longer told what to do, you have to tell yourself to do it. You are no longer forced to study, you actually like doing it. You are no longer vulnerable and dependent, you learn courage. It is natural to be jumpy about the idea of going to a completely foreign place and a fear of not being accepted or not being able make friends. In college, however, everyone is received with open arms. You find people with the same interests as yours and make lifelong friends. You open up into full bloom from the tiny bud you once were. It is a big and difficult step to start

a new life, but trust me college is a step that is also the most adventurous and enjoyable along the way.