I have lived in a few places in my life, but the place that has shaped me the most would have to be Grand Valley. Living near a college campus has been an interesting experience because it is the first time I have been living on my own, and there are so many different people from different backgrounds compared to my home town. For me, moving away to college was the scariest yet most exciting adventure I have ever been on.
The first thing I have learned about on this journey is the idea of being independent. Granted, I still talk to my parents nearly every day and they are still a huge part of my life, but this was the first time that I didn't have someone always making sure I was taking care of myself, going to class, and other things that come with living at home. When I moved from the dorms to my first apartment, it was a bit of a shock when I was the one paying for rent and utilities, and handling adult things like doctors appointments, groceries, and my student loans. It was utterly terrifying, yet somehow exhilarating, becoming more in charge of my life.
Another thing that this place has taught me is how to adapt to new circumstances while staying true to myself. Being around so many new people is exciting, but it is also overwhelming. When I start to feel like too much is going on or I have too much on my plate, my favorite place to be is out in nature. On campus, the Arboretum is my favorite little spot to slip away in between classes to just be still. I love finding a bench out in the wooded area and just surrounding myself with nature.
Living in a college community is like the stepping stone to independence. It has made me think about my place in the world, surrounded by so many new people and exciting opportunities. Like many other college students, I have watched myself step out of my comfort zone in many ways, and I am thankful for the chance to start to really discover who I am.
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