Freshman Year Reflection

 

    Going into my freshman year of college after graduating high school, I had a lot of uncertainties. People go in different directions after graduating and I wasn't sure if the path I was planning was sufficient compared to my peers.

    Mainly, I wasn't sure if I was making the right decision by choosing North Central. Most of my friends chose to go to schools far from home for the "college experience"/partying, which is something I've never been into. I've always had the goal of graduating college debt-free, so I made sure to pick a school where I could commute and afford it without having to take out loans. After picking North Central, I was happy because it was a great school that I could afford and stay close to my family while attending, but other people didn't agree with my decision. I got made fun of by peers who expected me to go to an "elite" university because of my good grades and was told time and time again that I was going to miss out on the "experience". Even teachers told me this. At times I felt ashamed of my decision and considered changing it multiple times but ultimately I stuck with it.

    One year later I can say that I'm happy with my decision but not yet satisfied. I've been very impressed by the structure and rigor of North Central's academic programs (especially for computer science and business management) as well as the professors. I am challenged everyday, just as I would be at an "elite" university. I'm also impressed by the industry connections and advice the school has for internships, jobs, etc. via the CCPD and department chairs. Because of the above, I know that I'm at the right school, but there's a downside: I don't have a lot of friends here. It's difficult to make friends when you're a commuter and are never around to hang out. Freshman year has been great overall, but very lonely too. It's tough seeing old peers with new friends partying every weekend and taking their education for granted when I don't have that luxury. 

    Although this year has been lonely, I am grateful for it. I have developed tremendously as a result of being isolated from that "college experience". Going into the summer, I have all my classes planned for all four years, a fun job, a flexible financial plan for the next 15 or so years, a bunch of resume boosters lined up for the summer, a continued strong bond with my family, the fitness and physique that I've always wanted, and a renewed belief in the Christian faith. I guess creating all that has been my form of the college experience so far.

    Overall, I am happy with my decision but there is always room to improve. The sky is the limit - one down three to go.