My first semester at UF taught me resilience, independence, and determination. Moving away from family and friends, the semester marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life. I was eager to face academic challenges and excited to experience the life of a college student. Little did I know that within the first month of the semester, I would be faced with personal and academic struggles that I would later overcome.

 

Only during my second week of class, I was involved in a car accident as a passenger. Thankfully, I was not physically harmed but the event left a noticeable mark on my mental health. Distant from my family, I learned the importance of staying strong and resilient as I coped with anxiety and stress. Balancing my rigorous coursework and personal life seemed impossible at first, but with time the impossible became manageable. 

​

I feel confident that this semester has properly prepared me for those to come, teaching me valuable lessons about stress, studying, and balance. I look forward to: forming new memories, seeing my new friends again, and embracing the knowledge that comes with academic struggles. Most importantly, I aim to enjoy the process, the journey, as I move towards my goals and bright future. I am proud of my accomplishments and enthusiastic about those to come.