My path of education

Wow! I can't believe I'm already done with my first year of college! It seems like just yesterday I was on my plane on my way to Oregon.  I was scared to come out here and begin my education in a public setting, and meet people. The road was definetly not easy, but it was all worth it.

First, I want to talk about what I learned. I had three semesters with one subject each time, plus a religion class. The first semester was all about life skills. I learned how to make short/long-term goals, how to interact with others, and understand the purpose of education. The second semester was on english. I learned a lot about myself writing about things I was passionate about, and I discovered what I wanted to major in. The last semester was math. It was a struggle to relearn some things, but I learned new math techniques that I've never even learned. Math was definetly my favorite, as I grew the most from it.

Next, I want to talk about the people. At my religion class and Pathways, I had the opportunity to meet many wonderful people with high spirits. We all came together as one in class; we helped and learned from eachother. Not only did I meet people at my classes, but at church. Many of them I have been able to gain a friendship from and had many opportunities to spend time together. I received a lot of support from my family and co-workers as I went through the motions of taking control of my future.

Lastly, I want to talk about me. (I promise I'm not conceited) My number one reason to coming out here, was to be my own person. I know, I know, it sounds a little weird, but I've never given myself the opportunity to show others who I really am. In the past many people would introduce me, and I would just quietly stand there just waiting for someone to talk to me. I decided that I won't meet anyone if I don't even try. I have come out of my shell a whole lot more and gained confidence in myself. I always thought of myself as a scrawny, quiet person, but come to find out, I'm quite loud. Not as in stating my opinion, but I DO really enjoy talking to people. I like knowing small details of their lives that many people don't know.

So what is next for me? Well, I have began my mission papers and will be submitting them when I go home to Georgia. My availability date is set for Dec. 1st of this year. I am anxious, but really excited!! I'm not continuing with school this fall, so I can prepare for my mission by working. After my mission I plan to work, begin my major at BYU-Idaho Online, and then transfer to BYU-Hawaii. Sometime in that time frame, I want to work for the Disney Company. Maybe by the time I get back I can plan a wedding;) We will see!