Guys, I don't hate college.

College rocks.

I can officially say it to the world without lying:

I am enjoying my college experience.

Sunday night, it would not have been possible for me to make this statement and back it up with truth. I had, what you could call, a not-so-fantastic first couple of days here at Dayton. My few days were riddled with tears, overwhelming anxiety, and dread of the year ahead. I felt uncomfortable and out-of-place, and simply wanted to be home. I was extremely pressured to drink in three different locations on one night and was terrified. I hated where I was, and I was ready to give up.

But guys! Here's something that's pretty cool.

I LOVE IT NOW. God has worked in me and given me the strength and positivity to make me ready to push my comfort zone and to gain new experiences. He's putting people, experiences, and joy into my life that I definitely did not believe was possible just a simple four days ago.

First of all, the people. I have an amazing roommate, Christina. Christina cracks me up, she has a rad music taste, and I love talking to her about anything and everything. I also have some amazing friends. Three standout friends have come into my life and I don't think they'll probably leave it for a while. First, Nick. Nick is one of the funniest kids who I have met during my time here. I love talking to him simply because he always has something funny to say that cheers me up. Then there's Sarah. Sarah is the most surprising girl. She has a funny, outgoing exterior, but inside she is always thinking about others. She cares for them and wants what is best for them, and is strong in her faith. Finally, Emma. Emma is one of the most genuinely good people I have ever met. She and I have connected about faith and I cannot wait to get to know her better. I can't help but love the crap out of her. Or any of the three for that matter.

Next, my classes. For my Tuesdays and Thursdays I get to sleep til 8:15. And on Monday, Wednesday and Friday I have ONE class and it's not til NOON. I can sleep as late as I please. How BEAUTIFUL is that?!?! And mind you, these classes are things I'm actually interested in, with professors who genuinely are passionate about what they are teaching. The education aspect of college rocks.

Finally, the relaxation. Can I just say, all I do all day is my classes, and then WHATEVER I WANT? Like, GOD BLESS AMERICA, THE SWEET, SWEET FREEDOM. I can't tell you how nice it is to do what I want, when I want. And not only that, after Friday, I can get involved in all kinds of stuff to fill that free time. So, for all of you high schoolers out there, that aspect of college really is all that it's cracked up to be.

So I know this wasn't much insight into what it's really like to be where I am. I guess what I really just want to say is, carry on when it gets hard. Always push your comfort zone, and reach out to those who are there for you (shouts out to Angie A., Ben, Emma and Bren for keeping me alive for that first weekend) and they will help to pull you through the tough times. 

Great things don't only come to those who wait. Great things come to those who go out into the world and take risks.

Have a wonderful day, readers. Feel free to contact me if you want more details on the Dayton experience as of yet.

All my love,

Nikki