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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Toronto MU chapter.

Turning 20 years old is something to celebrate; it shows that you’ve lived for two decades — whether by absolutely thriving or barely surviving. But for me, it seems very hard to feel joyful at a time meant for celebration.  

I turn 20 in June this year, and it’s something I have mixed feelings about. This birthday will be confusing as I struggle to accept that my time as a teenager is ending. This milestone puts an end to my teen years and has me enter a new chapter of my life: adulthood. 

I’ve always loved birthdays as a child, but with each passing year, I feel as though it’s something I’d rather not acknowledge. It’s a reminder that with age comes more responsibility, and this time in my life is when I should be figuring out what I want my future to look like.

It’s a daunting realization filled with uncertainty. 

Growing up is unavoidable and something everyone struggles to accept. However, it doesn’t always have to be something to fear but rather something to reflect on and look forward to. 

Turning 20, in turn, can also be something to embrace. It signifies an exciting time filled with adventure, new experiences, self-discovery and growth. Altogether, it’s a milestone to reflect on accomplishments, embrace a newfound sense of maturity and, most importantly, enjoy life and what it has to offer.

Allison Baldwin

Toronto MU '26

Allison is a journalism student at Toronto Metropolitan University. If she is not writing, you will find her in the kitchen making her favourite foods and relaxing with a good book. You can find her on Instagram and Twitter, @allisonhbaldwin