Finding Yourself in a New Environment

During my first week here at UCLA, I had to get used to many things... having to wake up an hour earlier than usual to walk 20+ minutes to all of my classes, waking up on a smaller bed that's much higher up than my one at home, paying for laundry, walking to the mail center to pick up packages rather than having it in front of my door step, and so much more. But most importantly, I am in the process of finding my place here.

In high school, my routine was much simpler compared to the one I have now, and my peers knew me as an advocator for mental health and self-love, a person fascinated by biology and research, and my love for singing and piano. Moving to a place where nobody really knows me, it's a little harder to stand out as a person when there are hundreds and thousands more students that are just as academically qualified, talented, and creative, if not more.

For example, getting rejected from clubs is a normal experience here, which is something I still need to get used to. I often forget that I am competing against many more amazing people that also have so much to offer. The thought of having to do more to show that I can be unique is exhausting, especially since I've spent a lot of high school trying to find my place in that community.

However, it means your story doesn't stop there. Know that you aren't alone in finding yourself. You have a greater support system than you think. I came to college extremely homesick, but I found that my roommates are there for me as much as I am there for them. I make time to call my friends and family from home who are there to give me advice. It was then that I realized I don't have to change anything about myself, I just have to find the people and communities that will appreciate me for the person I am. If there is one piece of advice you can take away, know that your worth is not defined by others, your presence is worth everything when you find the right people and the right places who will embrace your true self.