September 2006
From Vermont to Buffalo
“I love you, mom”, I whispered taking another step back from her. She reached for the door, opened it and slowly got in. I smiled one last time and then turned my back to her, walking away. Turning, I left behind me everything that was familiar to me; my adolescence, my innocence, and my first home. In return however, I received the warmth of new friendships, the struggle of new beginnings, and the true satisfaction of being challenged academically.
It was three weeks ago that I left my rural home state of Vermont and began my freshman experience at Canisius College. For me the transition period occurred quickly, as I found myself wrapped up in the care free and fun atmosphere of my two-day freshman orientation. The end of orientation gave way to the whirl wind of meeting my roommate, floor mates and Canisius students all while moving in. As my initial days of shyness wore off, I was able to talk with and befriend the girls on my Bosch floor. Though I had quickly adapted to my new surroundings at Canisius, it wasn’t until I found a group of girls that I could truly laugh with, share my experiences with, and just overall connect with that I felt like I was in the right place; I was home.
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Me and the gals. |
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Hanging out in the Bosch lounge. |
Now, not only three weeks into my new friendships on campus, but also two weeks into my academic courses, I have grown an appreciation for the challenge of college. Though my late night homework sessions have turned into early morning bed times, I find the lack of sleep worth it. The knowledge that I have gained in the past two weeks, seems to surpass that of all my years of high school combined. Not only the knowledge, but the work ethic and the dedication that I have quickly developed is so satisfying that the lack of sleep does not even phase me.
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And of course, one more shot for fun! |
For me, it no longer matters what I left behind three weeks ago as I walked away from my mother, because the things that I have gained are so amazing.
~Babara
