When I first arrived at Winona State University in the Fall of 2017, I had no idea what the next few years would look like. You see, when I first arrived on campus as a freshman, I technically wasn’t even a freshman. When I was in high school I took part in the Post Secondary Enrollment Option Program (PSEO) that Minnesota high school’s offer. So by the time I entered my freshman year of college, I was a few credits short of being qualified as a junior. And that was terrifying.

While all of my freshman year friends were beginning their generals and making new friends, I was entering my major classes. This was especially difficult for me as a freshman because not only was everyone in my classes juniors or seniors, but they also had their friends groups established already. Once I finally became comfortable, I decided to get more involved. And once I became more involved, I was presented with so many amazing opportunities. And now as I begin my last semester at Winona State, I decided it would be fitting to share a few things I’ve learned throughout my time here.

Getting involved is the best decision you’ll make.

My freshman year was anything but extraordinary. I don’t talk about it a lot, but during my freshman year I was actually battling a sexual assault case. After my traumatic experience, getting involved in campus activities was the last thing I wanted to do. There were times when I didn’t even feel comfortable enough to leave my room. My entire first semester on campus was spent hiding out and feeling insecure. It wasn’t until my second semester on campus I started to get more involved. One of the first things I decided to do was sign up to be a part of a travel study to China. After the travel study, I had made some incredible friends and found the confidence to join clubs and get more involved with my major. It was not easy, but the friends I’ve made from getting more involved are absolutely irreplaceable.

It is OK to be/feel alone.

There are so many times where I feel like I have nobody to reach out to. Its especially difficult to cope with feeling alone when my parents live a six hour drive away from Winona. I always try and remind myself that I’m not the only one who might feel alone, and I’m not the only one who may be struggling. When I feel alone I try to distract myself by going to the gym, watching a new show on Netflix or adding a new post to this blog. For me, my loneliness has gotten to unbearable points, but overcoming those hard times has only made me stronger.

Studies matter more than anything.

Obviously you go to college to study for your future career, but many people look forward to the party scene. While it is important to go out and have fun with your friends, your studies will always matter more. Studying is so important to me, especially with graduating at the end of this semester, because my studies help me to get prepared for the jobs I could be working after graduation. The last thing I’d want is to not feel prepared for entering the work force. I’ve been so thankful for my professors at Winona State. They’ve been incredible resources and have opened my eyes to the many possible jobs I could apply for soon.

It is OK to be selfish.

And I don’t mean that you should lack consideration for others. What I mean is that it is OK to take time for yourself if you need to. College is hectic, and you are constantly talking with people and working on your school work. It is OK to take a night (or two) to yourself to just lay low and watch Netflix or go home for the weekend. Taking time for myself is one of the most important things for me and it helps me to recharge.

Family over everything.

Finally, I learned that even though I am away at college, my family will always be the most important thing in my life. Each year I’ve been away at school, my family has gone through some very difficult times that I have had to travel home for. While studies do matter, nothing will ever be more important than being there for your family in hard times.