“Content”

Coming back to campus this fall semester has definitely been interesting. As a sophomore I’m supposed to understand what's going on and have a better understanding of college life, but honestly I still feel like a freshman. Last year was anything but normal, so this may as well be my first year on campus, even if I grew up nearby. With all of my own questions swirling around my mind as I adapt to being in a real life classroom again and take on new responsibilities, I felt like a big ball of anxiety. 

It all seemed a little daunting, that first week of the semester, but then I realized I just had to take a step back and look at it all again. Not having previous experience in the matter, I had scheduled myself across campus with only 15 minutes to make it. While I did make the attempt to run over twice (both of which were unsuccessful and left me sweaty) I soon realized that it would be so much better if I switched to a different course. I have never liked change that much, and finding classes with an already pretty full schedule is not the most fun, but once I had it done I immediately felt like I could take a deep breath and feel calm again. Something that can be so simple to others was such an important thing to me. It just shows that nothing is ever meaningless if it betters your mental health. 

So here is your reminder to check in with yourself. My attempt at running across campus could be you overloading yourself with clubs and work. While both can be important, don’t let your mental wellness suffer because of it. Just one little switch or modification can cut your stress in half sometimes. 

Honestly, I am doing so much better now. I love all of my classes and the clubs and organizations I am a part of are the best break from school work, but also further my passions and add to my happiness. Last year I was so burnt out and sick of going to classes from my dorm room, so this semester has been so amazing so far. Being in a class surrounded by people still feels a little weird after the past year and a half we had, but it pushes me to stay engaged. I feel like I actually have connections on campus now too. I’m not just seeing faces through a screen. I truly feel happy. Who would have thought that human connection is so important?

So how am I truly feeling? Last year I may have just put “AHHH”, but now I would love to just say “content”. And I am perfectly fine with that.