1/4

Well. I made it. It seems kind of not real but also I feel like I’ve been a freshman in college for fifteen years. And it also feels great. When I bought my planner back in July, I looked at May and June and kind of didn’t think I would make it. When my family was making summer 2016 plans, I definitely could not imagine being there. It seemed impossible to get that far.

But, I made it. We all did. I fell up stairs, got soup thrown on me, got freezing water dumped on me, got published, fell down stairs, also sat on by a Great Pyrenees and so much more. And everything was worth it.

Of everything I did this year, trying was definitely the best. I regret nothing and I’m so glad I stayed. In October, my mom just got frustrated and said, “Well then just come home.” For some reason I said no. And now I know completely why I did.

The people I have met and the things I have done have changed me. The tiny and scared part of me in October somehow knew that before I did. I know that I am meant to be here and I am so grateful that I can be. My friends and family supported me through everything, and with out them, I definitely would have gone home. So thank you. Your support and letters and chocolate and Facebook messages made more difference than I can say. I am unbelievably thankful for all of you. Being 1/4 of the way done with college is possible because of you.

It’s so hard to not be afraid but I promise that trying is the best way to conquer it. You’ll even regret not trying because there is a small
part of you that knows you can do it. I’ll refrain from quoting Nike, but you get my point.

Noli timere.

~ Addie