Love Letter

Dear high school senior who is about to leave for college,

Change is apart of life that everyone struggles with. If you are someone like me, getting used to your new “normal” of leaving high school and starting college is the scariest thing ever. Going away to college should be exciting and fun, however all you may be feeling is anxiety, fear, and nerves. When I was in that position, I tried to make myself thing everything would stay the same with all the relationships I was leaving behind. I absolutely loved my hometown and I was so sad to leave my family, friends, and boyfriend at the time. I could not help but worry about what the future was going to hold. You might see so many people who cannot wait to get away from home, but you might be feeling the total opposite. If you are feeling any of those things I felt about a year ago, trust me it is totally normal.

When your life at college begins, you may find yourself fighting to keep a relationship from high school alive. You might put your all into it and come up short. Trust me, it HURTS. But I promise you will find your happiness again with time and help from the people you still do have. I thought I would never work past it, but I find me putting myself first more than I ever have. You also might find yourself worried that your hometown friends will replace you while they are away at college. Yes, they will make new friends but know that doesn’t mean that will change anything with yours. You will always have a place in their heart. If anything, my hometown friends and I are closer than ever and appreciate each other more.

Despite all of those fears, I encourage you to try new things, stay busy, and realize that this is supposed to be such a fun time of your life. The more you are around campus, the better it gets. I promise. For the longest time I thought it would never get better. I joined clubs, made friends on my floor, and did well in classes but still felt not quite right. If you keep doing those things, I promise it will start to feel easier and you will look forward to being there. Do not be afraid to feel any of the emotions you are facing. There will be hard days, but life is not perfect. Most importantly remember that your family has your back. During that time of my life there is no way I could have gotten through it without them. College is a long, hard, exciting, and fun journey all wrapped up into four years. Lean on those around you, and believe in yourself. I promise you that everything will happen for a reason and what is meant for you will not pass you.

Love,

Holly