It’s crazy to think a year ago today I was turning 18 and still in high school. Now, I am turning 19, and I’ve never felt more myself. A year ago, I was still learning more about myself and now being in college I’ve realized so many things — I’ve grown out of my comfort zone more than I ever would have in high school.
Here are the things I’ve learned about myself since turning 18.
- Choose the adventure
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I have learned a lot about myself through the adventures I’ve taken and still do. I’m not the quiet, shy kid I used to be, and I have to thank my biggest adventure for that, college. College has been the best adventure yet because that’s where I have truly learned to be myself. High school was too small, and I wasn’t able to be who I really wanted to be because everyone was supposed to fit in a box. I didn’t feel like I fit in just one box like I was supposed to. Now, when I’m with my friends, I am such a different person than I was in high school. Every adventure I have taken since last year has shown me little bits and pieces of myself, and I am so thankful for every part of my journey.
- Go to that party
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I never went out much in high school — honestly, I’m glad I waited. Going out in college has shown me to take a break and have fun. It has shown me to get out of my comfort zone and do something I normally wouldn’t do. I’m grateful to have a group of people that look out for each other because that is something important to have when you are going out.
- Dye your hair and get the piercing you want
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I’ve stopped caring what other people would think if I did certain things with my hair or if I were to get my nose pierced. I’ve always wanted to dye my hair really dark, so I finally did and didn’t care what anyone would think. I also wanted to get a nose ring at one point, so I ended up getting one. My appearance is something that I get to control, so I want it to look how I want it to.
- find your people
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In the past year, I have met three people that have become really important people in my daily life. The first person I met has become my best friend, and I am so glad I met her in the beginning of my college career because I couldn’t imagine college life without her. She is someone I am excited to share college life with. The second person I met is my amazing girlfriend — they are the best thing to happen to me. I couldn’t imagine life without them. Last but not least, my roommate has become another person I consider important. She has helped me through so much.
Molly Peach / Her Campus
There is so much more that I’ve learned about myself but that’s all a story for another day. I am grateful for the life lessons I’ve been taught so far and for all the support I’ve received. This is my last year as a teenager, so I plan to live it up. This is the year for mistakes and growth, laughter and tears. To 19, here I come.