When I made my college decision, I was terrified I made the wrong choice and that I would never find a home here. I was worried I wouldn’t find a place where I belonged and worried that I wouldn’t find a support system.
But when Emily, our assistant opinion editor, brought Tyler, our opinion editor who will serve as editor-in-chief next year, a homemade cake to celebrate his promotion I knew I had found one of many homes through The Daily Tar Heel here at UNC.
As a first-year I was intimidated. The coursework, grades and opportunities seemed overwhelming. Seeing as I almost made the mistake of not applying to UNC, it makes sense that I almost made the mistake of not applying to work at the DTH.
However, at the encouragement of my friends, I applied and during the first few weeks I was intimidated, quiet and normally didn’t involve myself in the conversation.
Now, if you walk into a meeting you’ll hear me pitch, comment and joke around with people who I am overjoyed to have the opportunity to work with.
I also found a home after rushing in the spring at Kappa Kappa Gamma, and my roommate, suitemates, hallmates and classmates all provide support and intellectual challenges I never anticipated. These are the same people who run with me to pet puppies in the Pit and play mini golf in Davis Library. They make UNC home.
To the first-years who are finishing up their second semester of college, to the upperclassmen and to the incoming class of 2021 Tar Heels: I hope you grab onto every opportunity that is placed in front of you at this University no matter how terrifying it is. Not only will it help you meet people who make UNC home, but it will provide so many fulfilling opportunities.
Our world seems to be crumbling at times, and while it might be the naive college student in me, I truly believe if we take full advantage of the chances we are given we could be the ones that actually make substantial change.
Make some questionable decisions. Try everything. Bring your coworker a cake, play mini golf in Davis, apply for that internship you’re not sure about and try to change the world in little ways.
