(back)

Change for the better

It’s been quite a transformation for me coming from a small town to a university in the middle of a gigantic city. First of all, the people here are all different in relation to personality, style and ways of life. In my hometown, it was almost as if I were excluded from the real world. At home, I wasn’t able to experience different cultural backgrounds and encounter different social patterns. My eyes are opening up to the world around me, and I’m learning about things that, in the past, I wasn’t able to comprehend as well.

Learning about different cultures and observing the way other students interact has broadened my perspective in college. I’ve learned how to be more open-minded and accept ideas I wasn’t previously familiar with. I’m also finding that college has, so far, changed me for the better. No longer am I shy and reserved. I’ve learned how to speak up, improve my communication skills and make friends quickly.

With my new attitude, I feel more confident and independent. I am also feeling more at ease with my studies. My high school friends always said that change can be good and bad. When it’s good, don’t take it for granted. Instead, use it to your advantage! With that advice in mind, I’m going to keep thinking positively, keep making improvements in areas in which I’m weak and keep being openminded. At the same time, I will reflect on how college has been, by far, the most beneficial and life-changing experience of my life!

Tanya Walwyn is a freshman at University of South Florida and an intern for The Next Step Magazine.

Article provided by