The most important thing I’ve learned since the beginning of this semester is that everyone’s path in life is so different. I tend to compare myself to others, like many people my age. Those aren’t my proudest moments but I find myself doing it often. Why are they doing so well in this class and not even putting in half the work I do or they look like they’re thriving in college. 

Especially in this class, I’ve learned I’m not alone. We’ve had some deep conversations, which is very uncommon for a group our age. But those days when we got to meet and share our views got me to see that we all do it. We all compare ourselves to others and I think it took me so long to realize that I did, until I heard others did too. From hearing other students’ point of view the common factor that initiates this thought is social media.

Living in a time where social media is the center of our world, is terrifying. I’ve compared myself to people I have never even met but why do I do this? It’s hard to see past the pretty pictures and realize that no one’s life is perfect. Many strive to show off a perfect lifestyle but in reality we all struggle. We live in a world where social media is part of our daily lives from the moment we wake up to when we fall asleep, especially during a time like this. 

Since being home I tend to spend a lot more time on my phone than I would if I were on campus. It’s hard when we are stuck doing the same thing everyday with little escape. This time of quarantine will one day be a memory but for now it’s a time for reflection. During this semester I’ve learned to let go and just accept my path in life is perfect just for me. I know I’ll struggle but those trying times come with moments of happiness. I know I’m still learning to not worry about others’ opinions or compare myself but that’s just a habit that I’ll learn to break. I, unlike many, appreciate this time in quarantine to reflect on myself and learn of who I’ve become during my first year of college.

First day of college