College is fleeting, enjoy it while you can

As I drove back to Gainesville after about two months filled with travel and relaxation, I came to a horrific realization.

I listened to music and thought about how much I love UF. I thought about how much the university has impacted me and how much I’ve grown here. Then, my horrifying realization dawned on me. I’m old.

I recognize I’m not that old. However, I know a few incoming freshmen, including my brother. I’ve been able to relive the exciting and terrifying transition of graduating from high school and moving to college. I’ve realized this is simultaneously so near and so far away from where I am now.

I have had the time of my life while at UF, and coming to terms with the truth that the end is on the horizon is both a relief and slightly depressing. While I’m excited to see where life takes me after I cross the stage at graduation, I don’t think I want this chapter to end. I recall my Preview experience, move-in day, the first day of class. More importantly, I remember the first time I stood up for myself and my beliefs in a college setting.

I remember meeting people I now call my best friends. I remember finding my passions — things I never thought I’d care about have impacted me. I remember each moment that I discovered a part of myself, thanks to the people and experiences I’ve encountered during my time here.

As I walk around campus and see all of the new students making friends and learning new things, I can’t help but envy them. I can’t say I want to do it all over again — because it was a lot of work and I’m kind of tired — but I treasure those moments more than I ever thought I would.

I know I’m not done with UF, but I can see the end that I never acknowledged. If you’re a freshman — or an upperclassman who needs to remember this — and find yourself reading this, please don’t take this time for granted.

Enjoy it. Make mistakes. Don’t be afraid to try new things, and step out of your comfort zone. Go to that party. Take that notoriously hard class if it interests you. If you want to do something, do it.

There are some things you can reasonably be afraid of, but don’t let fear inhibit you. Many meaningful things I’ve done were scary at first, like approaching professors, applying for things I thought I wouldn’t get and talking to complete strangers. You won’t be successful in everything you attempt, but I can say failure is one of the greatest gifts. I wouldn’t be where I am without failing.  

College is like a roller coaster, with moments that feel like college isn’t worth the stress or that you don’t belong here. But then, you’ll feel like everything’s falling into place, and you find a way to make UF your home. I’m not going to pretend like the last two years have been perfect, but they have been incredible.

To those just starting their journey, I wish you the best of luck. My fellow students also realizing their academic mortality, I’m sorry. I’ll see you at the retirement home, which I figure is leaving Midtown at 11:30 p.m.

 

Taylor Cavaliere is a journalism and psychology junior. Her column appears on Tuesdays.