My first year of college has been an incredible experience. It had its up and downs but all in all it was a great year full of wonderful memories. I have learned so much also. The biggest take away from this year is the family I have gained at Linfield. I grew incredibly close to my softball team and all their families, along with my coaches and they have proved to be a great support system while I am so far from home. I have continued to learn the value of a team and how important it is to be able to work as a team.
In the past year, I have learned the value of time management and the importance of staying focused. That can be difficult in college, with so many activities going on around you. You have to remember the reason you at school is to get an education, and all the rest of it comes second. Paying for college myself is something that has been a challenge but I have simply tried my very best to make it work. It has caused me to value my education even more and I have also learned to make every moment count. Capitalize on every opportunity and make this college experience something to remember for a lifetime.
Oregon is such a welcoming, friendly environment compared to California. Everywhere you go, people say hello and go out of their way to help you. I’m not saying California is a bad place with bad people, but Oregonians are just friendlier. It was a very easy transition when I first went to Oregon and it has become a home away from home. I see myself possibly staying in Oregon after I graduate. I could not have imagined going to any other school but Linfield. Since it was so small, the experience I had there was much different than it would have been if I had gone to a UC or state school. All my professors knew me well and on a personal level. They were all so eager to help me succeed and the liberal arts education I am getting is well worth the large price tag.
