Becoming More Myself

I found all throughout high-school and now currently, in college, I've always had a pretty clear sense of who I was. I've always had a supportive, loving family and so many great friends that I adore. I care about school and make sure to get A's and B's. I am involved on campus and was super involved throughout high school in sports, clubs, and other extracurriculars. I've always loved fashion and had a somewhat unique style but never wanted to stray too far from the norm. I kind of knew what my future would look like.

But, I found I never really knew what was truly important to me. Until Semester at Sea. The entire experience was incredibly eye-opening. I met so many people that had such a fierce impact on me. I went to so many new places and saw so many things that made me question what I really wanted out of this life. The entire experience made me ponder who I really was. I came back and I reflected on the last four months and what I had learned. I had essentially become a whole new person. Before studying abroad, I had cared so deeply what others had thought of me. I wanted approval and validation from my family and friends. I wouldn't wear something I loved because a friend told me they thought it was ugly. Or, I would do something I really didn't want to do just because everyone else was. In simpler terms: I was scared of standing out.

Studying abroad was crucial for me. I have learned more about myself, about others, about the world. I am better educated, and I have seen the world in the purest way possible. I grew socially, creatively, and spiritually.I have tried foods I have only ever heard about. I have seen immense wealth and I’ve seen poverty. I have seen other religions being practiced. I have bonded with people of different cultures and different backgrounds. I have helped strangers and strangers have helped me. I learned to immerse myself into each new experience. I embraced every new opportunity and let myself live in the moment rather than focusing on what was next. I became the best version of myself during this journey of self-discovery. I will now continue to be this person that is so different than who I was before. I allow myself to be the most creative version of myself. I choose to surround myself with people that support me and build me up. I engage in hobbies and interests that I might have not pursued before. I care more about my daily habits such as exercising and what is going to make me the best version of myself. I wear what I want to wear and care less about others opinions. I am happier, more confident, and freely myself without worry. I have become who I needed to be.