This semester, my first at THE Ohio State University, has been a wild ride. Even now while I’m typing this selection I can’t believe how I am through my first semester and how much things have changed. I have successfully transitioned from living in a small rural area to living as a college students at one of the biggest universities in the country. I have made many friends and have had some incredible experiences.

Being involved in Biological Sciences Scholars I have been introduced too many new people with similar interests to me as well as provided me with the opportunity to engage in many cool experiences. Through my scholars program I have done everything from volunteer for the Steps for Sarcoma 5k, to participating in study groups with my fellow members, to playing flag football in the scholars intramural league. I also volunteered in August for Community Commitment where Ohio State sent students all over Columbus to volunteer to help the community. My group didn’t get to travel Columbus but I did pick up trash in the residential area around campus. I also met some of my closest friends at the cookie baking night early in the semester.

Besides my scholars group I have also been involved with two religious organizations, CRU and the Newman Center, both have which helped me develope not only a better relationship with God but also with many new people. This has improved my social skills interacting with new people but also my leadership skills as I was involved with Freshman Leadership Team with CRU. Along with these groups I was also involved with Pre-med club. This helped me gain a better understanding of the medical school selection process as well as what I should be doing as an undergrad. Along with clubs I also did many fun things with friends. We have had countless movie nights and nights of playing cards. We also have experienced a fun and sometimes too exciting football season and haven started basketball. With everything I did this semester has gone by so fast but at the same time it feels there is now way I did all of these things in only 3 months.

I have grown and matured in many ways since I have arrived on campus. I have become increasingly independent. Moving out and living on my own has been a huge adjustment but I believe I have come out on top. When I cam hereI was unsure of myself and looked to others for validation. Now I know I have my own path and can’t look to others for answers as everyone is doing something different and what is best for them. This is the first time I have had to consistently feed myself and plan out everything I need to do. I have definitely learned time management skills and hoot manage myself. I learned how to actually study as this semester has been more difficult than high school ever was. The amazing thing is I’m not going to stop learning and this semester is only the beginning as I will continue to learn and make even more memories.