Just think about it. It’s been three years since you’ve done something. Sure, it went by quickly, but a lot of time and action and emotion and excitement passed through during those 1095.726597 days.
For me, three years ago was the start of my college career. It’s fitting that I’m taking some time now, as a senior, to look back on it. I wouldn’t change anything, but if I could have gone back to three years ago, I would tell myself these three things:
1. You don’t know everything.
It’s cliche but it’s true. When you’re 18 and just starting out, you don’t think about all of the things that you don’t know. I’ll admit it. I approached a lot of situations with a “know it all” attitude. Granted, that same attitude helped me experience a lot of great things, but it probably hurt some people in the process. I’m sorry and I’ll try harder. I don’t know everything there is to know. In fact, I think life is a huge learning process and the only constant is change.
2. Make time to have fun.
When I started at Marywood, I was all excited for the chance to really prove myself and learn something. I found out pretty quickly that my college education is only what I put into it, and in many cases, I chose books over parties. My classes weren’t always going to teach themselves. Sometimes, I just had to learn it on my own and look deeper if I wanted the right answers. Being your own teacher can be great, but it’s taxing and confusing.
I’m a little sad that I didn’t do more things with my friends or had those wild and crazy experiences that everyone talks about for years to come, but I’m glad that I got to spend time with a lot of very special people. I met some friends that I know I’ll have for a lifetime. For that, I am forever thankful. You guys (and gals) rock.
3. Don’t settle.
This is something I have to remember for a lifetime. Settling is one of my worst fears, especially when I know I’m settling on something big. We’re not talking about settling for the cheese danish because they’re out of cherry. We’re talking about settling for a job or a boyfriend or a place to live or a dream. I’m young and in love and have plenty of opportunities to do what I want now. I just have to stop and remind myself of that when I get scared or feel anxious about change.
What are three things you wish you could have told yourself three years ago? Why?