What These 4 (long) Years Have Taught Me

College. A place to gain the education to further support your life career.

And it's been HELL for me.

I have struggled every step of the way, questioned whether I should be doing this, and often thought about giving up. Let's just say... DON'T.

Let's rewind a bit.

I attending UNCC my freshman year of college, and it ended in a traumatic experience. On the day of my birthday I received a text mid-way through class that we should "run, fight, or hide." I saw, in the LAST week of class, a person covered in blood from a school shooter.

Sophomore year, I got rejected out of nursing school and did everything in my power to get back in.

Junior year, I finally did it, as most will say. I got accepted into my "dream" career path. A path I knew will take me so many places.

In fact, I "failed" out of that too.

Years, upon years, I questioned every move I made:

• Was I making the right choice?

• Is my family actually proud of me?

• Am I a failure?

Oh trust me that ran through my mind often.

Until my Senior year. Until I met my forever mentor to guide me on the correct path. I truly would not be here, following my calling if it was not for her being in my life. If there is one thing I can say, it's to NEVER, EVER, give up on your dreams. Out there, whether you are searching for it or not, there is someone to guide you where you are supposed to be.

Now, this isn't a sappy, sad story, it's a real one. It's one that I have encountered, lived through and one I am seeing through. Because I have finally found my place in life.

Till next time,

Kenzie, a Graduate of Queens University of Charlotte '22