Written by: Siya Khanna
When a caterpillar comes out of its cocoon, it cannot fathom what changes it has been through. Similarly, we, who were so closely knitted into our cocoon of protection, don’t know what changes will occur when we forge ahead.
As rightly said by Martin Luther King, "Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase; just take the first step."
'College Life', a time that is said to be cherished the most, a time that is the transition from being a child who was taken care of from their minute needs to all their wants, to being an adult who has to start working to provide for themselves and evolve into their ideal selves. This metamorphosis phase brings a lot of changes. Confusion, anxiety, social awkwardness, worry and stress are some of the negative feelings one has to deal with. It also makes us question our worthiness and can lead to some having an existential crisis. Change brings a sense of fear in us.
'Am I doing the right thing? Will I be able to make good friends? Do I have what it takes to accomplish my goals? What if I am left behind by all my peers?'
These questions have imbued our minds at one point or another. But there is comfort in knowing that we aren’t the only ones who are frantic about our future. After all, who knows what lies in the great unknown?
Jumping headfirst into the adulting world also brings about a sense of freedom. According to the 'Self-determination' theory, feeling that you have the autonomy and freedom to make your own decisions and choices is very important for a person's well-being. Only through this can one reach the highest level of self-actualization.
However, it is important to remember that with freedom we have to practice some caution as well.
"Practise all liberties, as long as that does not impose on other people's liberties."
The sense of freedom allows us to enjoy life to the fullest, but at one point it is necessary to take a step back and introspect. Will the habits that I have acquired help me in the long run? Will they instead cause a dent in my future that will cause me regret and disappointment?
This new arc of my life has allowed me to get to know myself better; it has led me to enjoy spending time in others' company and most importantly, in mine. I am surprised at how I am able to take care of myself bit by bit. It turns out that all the advice my mother gave me about 1 the smallest of things helps me when I need it the most. I am also excited to see how I grow as a person and how this new aspect of life shapes me and my surroundings.
Change can be fearful but beautiful. If Icarus had been too afraid to take a leap of faith out of the comfort of his tower, which was actually his prison, he would've never soared the skies; and had he been flying between the sea and the sun, aware of the risks affiliated with this sudden change, he may have achieved greatness along with Daedalus.
After all college isn't just about academic progression but rather a rite of passage. A significant shift in lifestyle, responsibilities, and personal growth.
