By: Lexi Lebo
It feels like just yesterday I was walking across campus for the first time, eager to begin a new chapter of life. Moving out of state from Pennsylvania to Virginia, I was both excited and nervous about the uncertainty surrounding me - new friends, a new environment, challenging classes, and much more independence.
As I enter my final year at JMU, I would like to reflect on the journey that brought me here - the memories, the lessons, and the growth that has shaped who I am today.
Social Connections:
One of the most enriching aspects of my college career has been the relationships I built along the way. Friendships formed in dorm rooms, classrooms, and campus communities quickly became the backbone of my college experience. Living in a dorm room introduced me to an entirely new way of life. As an only child, I did not grow up sharing clothes, shoes, or just about anything else you could think of. The first night I moved into my dorm, my roommate asked, “Can I borrow a top?” I quickly felt as though I had five sisters and we all shared six closets of endless clothes. We did everything together including late-night study sessions, workout classes, and eating meals at the dining halls. This is what made freshman year so special. A simple living arrangement blossomed into meaningful friendships, and although my typical support system was 202 miles away from me, I was lucky to have found a home away from home. The friends I have made in college have become a second family to me and have supported me through some of my greatest accomplishments as well as some of my hardest times.
College can be extremely intimidating, especially when walking into a huge classroom filled with hundreds of unfamiliar faces. Although it seemed scary at first, this is what pushed me to break out of my comfort zone. Introducing myself to other students in class completely changed my college experience. I was able to not only collaborate and share ideas but make new friends as well. Some of my closest friendships were made in classrooms here at JMU. This environment also taught me that no matter how large the lecture, it is always important to form a relationship with professors. It can be easy to fall behind in these classes when you are used to small high school classrooms, but attending office hours allowed me to build a connection with my professors and get any one-on-one help necessary.
Being part of a large campus community also played a great role in my experience at JMU. Participating in sorority recruitment during my freshman year allowed me to branch out and connect with people who shared the same interests and passions as me. This not only enhanced my friendships but also broadened my horizons, introducing me to new perspectives. This community offered me a sense of belonging and purpose that extended beyond the classroom. I have always found it important to engage in meaningful activities and actively contribute to something larger than myself. Volunteering at philanthropic events has been an extremely fulfilling experience, allowing me to explore my own identity and learn about others. This group of young women has inspired me to grow and make a difference every day.
Personal Growth:
My journey from freshman year to senior year was not just about academic achievements or social connections; it was also about evolving as an individual. College has taught me how to be independent and confident by making small changes in my everyday routine. Raising my hand in class, going to the gym by myself, and eating alone in between classes are all simple everyday tasks that seemed intimidating as a freshman. These years have been extremely transformative, as I have learned to step out of my comfort zone and grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated. You cannot grow without embracing challenges and seeking new experiences.
It is easy to feel overwhelmed while balancing coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal life. College certainly teaches you how to manage your time and hold yourself accountable each day. Over the years, I have faced setbacks, made mistakes, and dealt with failure, but each challenge presented me with the opportunity to learn and grow stronger.
Transitioning Forward:
As I prepare to enter the next chapter in my life, I am beyond grateful for the opportunities college has provided me. I have learned to be independent by effectively managing my time, making tough decisions, taking accountability, and setting priorities. These years have been foundational to becoming a self-supporting adult. The person I was when I first stepped onto campus is not the same person who will be leaving. College has shaped me in ways that go far beyond the classroom. To me, college has been about discovering who I am and discovering who I want to become. I am ready to embrace the uncertainty and take on new challenges. I look forward to continuing to learn and grow as I build my future.
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