With so much time spent at home in my final year of college, I’ve had the opportunity to reflect on the past years.

Aside from the classroom, I realized just how much I’ve learned about myself and preparing for the future. Here are a few takeaways from me to you.

Take Every Opportunity

When I came to college, I was unsure of myself. It wasn’t until I took the chance to apply for an ambassador program for Atlanta Apparel that I realized the power of putting myself out there. This decision gave me the opportunity to make valuable connections with women in the industry, and it also allowed me to secure an internship amid a global pandemic. Looking back on this, I realize the power of saying yes to every opportunity. 

Find Core Friends

Coming to Auburn as an out-of-state student was a challenge in itself. And while I have met so many amazing friends along the way, I now understand the time it takes to distinguish real friends. Finding people who lift me up, encourage good habits, and truly care to listen is something that changed my college experience for the better. 

Surround Yourself With Leaders  

Tying in with the last takeaway, I believe that my college role models pushed me to constantly give my all—whether I was ringing up orders at Chicken Salad Chick or writing a story like this for Auburn Campus Rec. Taking a note from these driven and innovative professors, managers, and peers is what shaped me into the hard-working person I am today. 

Prioritize 

Although being driven is important, I had to learn the hard way that one person can only handle so much. It was only after my opportunity with Atlanta Apparel that I saw how crucial it is to devote my energy to what I’m passionate about. By involving myself in activities that furthered my skills in the fashion industry, I found how much easier it was to talk about relevant experience when it came to big job interviews.  

Recharge and Sleep

If you’re anything like me, you have a hard time functioning on little sleep. But sometimes (ok, most times) I allow school and work to come before this. By the end of the week, I’m so drained that I can’t control emotions and become overtaken by mental exhaustion. My mom even coined the term “Throwdown Thursday” for this phenomenon, because it happened so often. Introvert or extrovert, taking time for yourself and getting enough sleep is essential in a whirlwind of college classes, clubs, and events. 

Bounce Back

Life is hard. And as much as my perfectionist-self hates to admit it, Plan A doesn’t always work out the way I envision. The hardest lesson of all was learning to pivot and be okay with Plan B (or, let's be real, Plan C, D, and E). Making the most of any situation has eased the unnecessary stress in my life and has taught me to think on my feet. 

Pay Yourself in Memories

We all know school is the main priority here, but don’t forget to take some time to make memories with friends or even by yourself. Read a book on Samford, go shopping downtown with friends, and create valuable experiences with people. Learning the importance of balance is what kept me sane throughout these crazy four years.

Reflecting on my experience was not only eye-opening, but it made me realize how to better myself and my quality of life. Take some time to reflect on yourself and see what insight you gain. There’s always room for improvement!

Be well, Auburn.

Photography: Katherine S.