Three Takeaways From a Transfer Student
Last spring, I made the exciting decision to transfer to UGA this semester. While people transfer all the time, my move was more unconventional considering I made the jump from an in-state to an out-of-state school. When people ask me where I’m from and connect these dots, a look of surprise often comes across their face. “You decided to move further away from home?” they ask. I’ll tell them “I just needed a bigger environment, and Athens is so awesome. This is the change I needed.”
And, while this statement is completely true, my decision went deeper than just wanting a relocation. It took a lot of self reflection, motivation, and a willingness to risk everything just for an idea. But instead of playing it safe and settling, choosing to “just be happy” where I was, I chose to take a gamble on my future: my happiness, career, future friends and family—basically the trajectory of my life, if we’re being honest. Nothing about what I did has been, is, or will be easy. But here are three lessons that inspired me and that I’m continuously learning from as I live out the craziest decision I’ve ever made.
1. The right decision isn’t always the easy decision.
A question for readers: is anything that’s worth it easy? I have to ask myself this question a lot. If everything in life was easy, we would all already have everything we could ever want, right? What would be the point of the struggle, working hard, or doing anything?
I love the idea of self-growth and believe we are never stagnant. I have no doubt that making the hard choice, leaving the familiar environment I was in, and working through these challenges will have the ultimate payoff in the end. When that will be, I don’t know. But change leads to growth. Having to adapt to a new setting will be something I’ll be able to look back on one day that will show me I can do difficult things.
2. Practice gratitude and find appreciation in the little things.
Last fall, I took a class called Rhetoric of Gratitude at my old university. While this may sound like a random, even useless, course, I still consistently use and think about a lot of what we discussed—from the historical roots of gratitude to its health benefits, like lowering blood pressure, helping to mitigate symptoms of depression and anxiety, and more.
This class inspired me to make an effort to really live in the present and appreciate the world around me. I try to start and end my day with making a note of three things I’m appreciative of in that reflective moment, either mentally or by simply jotting them down. Sometimes it can simply be nice weather, fall leaves, or a call from a hometown friend. Other times, it’s my health, the ability to see and experience a new part of the country, or the gift of higher education in a world where not everyone has access to it because of their circumstances.
No matter what you’re finding to be appreciative of, and even when things may be difficult, seeking out and acknowledging the good in your life can be grounding. It’s all about perspective, and we have the power to shift ours. Making these small changes in your mentality can rewire your brain to look for the positive and can ultimately result in you having a happier, more fulfilling life.
3. Comparison is the thief of joy.
Especially with social media, it’s so hard to not compare ourselves to one another. Whether it’s who’s having the most fun, has the best clothes, or is landing the best jobs and internships, comparison is everywhere. I’m insanely guilty of doing this too, but whenever I catch myself going down one of these rabbit holes, I remind myself of this phrase: comparison is the thief of joy.
This is one of my favorite quotes and a great reminder to not put too much of your energy into spaces, especially when it could be better used in other places. Your energy is one of your most valuable assets, and where you put it influences your wellbeing, productivity, and so much more. Don’t give someone or something power over you without their even knowing it. You’re right where you’re meant to be!
In conclusion…
As I round out my first semester at UGA, I encourage readers to take these lessons to heart and never be afraid of what challenges may come up in the future. Mindset is everything, and even the most difficult experiences can become rewarding through the growth and learning that comes from them. Good things are happening to all of us—we just have to look for them!
