My first semester of college involved the most change I have ever endured. To be brutally honest, I was terrified of that change. Having moved from Argentina a few years ago and having already experienced massive adjustments, I was terrified of moving to a university where I knew absolutely no one and would be far away from my family. I was terrified of creating an entirely new lifestyle on my own. However, if my first semester taught me anything, it's that facing the obstacles that truly scare me is the best way to realize everything that I am capable of.

 

Doing things for the first time usually makes me anxious, and starting college, where doing new things on your own is a regular occurrence was nerve-racking.  What I've realized is that, even if I feel anxious, I can handle any task when necessary. When faced with a challenge, I know that I must rise to the occasion and get things done.

 

After completing my first semester, I acknowledged I accomplished so many things that I once believed I was incapable of doing.  I learned how to navigate a large campus. I conquered my first college exams. I gave multiple speeches on topics that I am passionate about. I joined several school volunteering organizations and began shadowing medical doctors. Even on a daily basis, I garnered small victories simply by being brave enough to break out of my comfort zone.

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After coming to a campus where so many people are constantly accomplishing incredible things, it was only natural that I began to think about my plans for future semesters and future goals.  One of my favorite days in the seminar class for the Undergraduate Research Scholars Program (URSP) was when different speakers shared how they got involved in research and the fascinating things they had accomplished. Their stories were astonishing and (at times) nerve wracking, and they influenced me to consider conducting research as one of my long-term goals.  

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Ultimately, my first semester of college changed me in more ways than I can count.  It taught me many lessons, undermined many expectations, and challenged many ideas. It was truly an amazing experience, and with several ups and downs, I can't wait to see what the next few semesters will bring on.