“Freshman year felt like a rollercoaster. I thought it would be like middle school but harder. Also it’s not just the schoolwork that’s intense, it’s the social stuff too. It felt like everyone already knew who they were and I felt like I was kinda invisible. But joining clubs and making new friends helped me alot. I’ve started liking drawing and being around people who are creative and supportive. It felt like home for me. One day we all brought our sketchbooks and shared our art. I was scared at first, but everyone was so kind about it. That moment helped me feel more comfortable and also made me so happy.
I’ve also started speaking up more in class, in clubs, and when I see things that matter to me and that interest me. I used to be a quiet person who didn’t want to stand out and didn’t like to talk to others , but realized I have a voice that deserves to be heard. Joining clubs like Key Clubs , ASA, and Animal Advocates helped me find community and I made a lot of friends in the clubs that helped me a lot and express myself. Next year I want to try badminton.
If I could tell next year’s freshman’s one thing,I would say that be patient with yourself. You don’t have to figure it all out right now. It’s okay to not know where you belong yet. Just be honest with yourself, and the right people will find you. Honestly, I didn’t think I had anything interesting to say but now I see how much I’ve grown.”
