Fast Freshman Year

My freshman year of college went by way faster than I could have ever imagined. Looking back, I want to cry at the thought of not seeing my closest friends for the next three months. When I first came to ONU, I missed home. I found myself calling my family members, friends and even my old coaches. I was refusing to let go of the life I had left behind. My life at home was comfortable for me. College was full of uncertainty and was quite overwhelming. How was I supposed to be friends with all these random people?

The people of ONU have left an everlasting mark on me. The other day, one of my classes was discussing why people stay here. I quickly told my professor the people here are unlike anyone I have ever met. I have made friends across all majors and athletic teams on campus. Everyone on campus supports one another. We celebrate one another's accomplishments in the classroom, and we cheer for one another during athletic events. ONU is a family. 

I will genuinely miss my Northern family this summer. Who else will I stay up with talking about the most random topics? My friend's birthday trip to Columbus to get cheesecake was a blast. This spring, my team got together to watch basketball and paint canvases. Some of my most memorable moments were all the hours I spent working on homework with big groups. We managed our stress by telling jokes and stories about our days. I will never forget all the hours I spent in Ammryn's room trying to figure out how to work Excel. Sadly, I still have very little understanding of the program. In addition, I cannot forget to mention all of Matt's calls trying to figure out assignments for this class or asking if we had class five minutes prior to our scheduled meeting time. 

ONU is a special place, and I am blessed to return here again in the fall. I know every year from here on is only going to pass even faster. Reflections like this remind me how grateful I am for the position I hold in life. I look forward to seeing you all in the fall.