As I am now approaching the finish line of graduating, there are many things I am looking back on. I regret not participating in every opportunity that was offered my way. I transferred from Siena College after my freshman year. Coming into a bigger school not knowing anyone was difficult. I felt like I had to start all over again.
Being the new kid is never fun, no matter how old you are. As I entered an entire new college, eager and excited to start fresh, the pandemic destroyed any chance I had of meeting new people, branching out and essentially having a memorable college experience. I feel like I was not given the same opportunity as everyone else, but I guess that is selfish to say.
The second week of sophomore year, I participated in recruitment and ended up getting into my top sorority. I remember how relieved I was to meet new people, to find “my” people. Sadly, that isn’t exactly how it happened. Only a few months after I joined my sorority, Sacred Heart mandated everyone to leave due to the pandemic. I was taken from every opportunity I thought I was going to have.
Although my college experience isn’t what I expected it to be, I am beyond grateful for the opportunities this school has given me. The pandemic didn’t stop me from meeting friends of a lifetime and pursing the career path that I was uncertain of when I first arrived.
As I look back on my college experience, I will forever cherish late night drives with my friends, petty arguments that never matter in the morning, studying all night long and simply feeling content with where my life is. I knew I made the right decision of transferring, regardless of the pandemic and how I thought my college experience was “supposed to go.” I am appreciative of every bumpy step that led me to where I am today.