Embracing Independence in College
Lettu share about her first time flying, and what she learned from that experience
Lettu share about her first time flying, and what she learned from that experience
College is a time where you learn to step into your independence. At times it can feel exhilarating, like when you control your schedule and make personal choices. Other times, it feels frightening, like when you try new things alone or undertake lots of responsibilities. Over the last few weeks, having independence to me has meant navigating through the airport… for my very first time.
WHAT WAS IT LIKE
The thought of a new experience is often exciting mixed with traces of fear. For me, the anticipation of having to navigate an airport— in a large city —by myself —for the first time was unsettling. I wondered: “What if I got lost? What if I miss my flight? What if … What if… What if….” My fear came from misunderstanding how the airport worked and uncertainty about being in an unfamiliar environment.
During and after college, there will be infinite instances where the fear of something new can feel overwhelming. So today, I hope to share steps that helped me embrace the newness that comes with independence.
BE OPEN TO ADVICE
College is a community where people with different identities, backgrounds, and life experiences come together, so you will have the chance to learn a lot of things from other people. Being in a community where everyone is near your age or older means that there is a high chance that most people have experienced similar situations and feelings as you. This thought process helped me to be open about my concern about navigating the airport with friends. As a result, many people shared with me great advice or similar worries.
PREPARE YOURSELF
Although people can offer some useful information and support, you also have to do your part to educate yourself. The airport was daunting because I didn’t understand my role and responsibilities in that setting. This uncertainty was a sign to me that I needed to search and learn about how the airport worked, what documents were required, and other applicable information. Doing this helped me to look for answers that were on my mind at any given time.
TRY YOUR BEST
After you have done all that you can do, the only thing left is to wish yourself luck and embrace your new environment. Taking on new things in life is scary, but it is worth it because it will mold you to become better than you began.
This is Lettu Konshie and she is an incoming freshman at Carleton College. Lettu hopes to spend her freshman year getting to know her peers and exploring the town of Northfield! During her free time, she loves to read and watch movies that explore new ideas, concepts, or lifestyles. Meet the other bloggers!