After the first semester, things settled down a bit. As college life became more routine, I realized blogging would just consist of the same things I had already shared with you. I began to think nothing was exciting enough, but I realize that's only because I was living it.
When I went home for summer, everyone wanted to know about college. I didn't like talking about it. It's like writing a book; I usually get stuck because I've mapped out everything and I already know the ending. I always forget that I'm the only one who knows. Besides, it's not over and it's hard to talk about it as if it is. Plus, my mom pointed out that most people I know stayed in state, but I went 400 miles away to a place where nobody knew my name. I had every chance to fail, but I only succeeded (so far). And although that is only what I would accept and expect for myself, not everyone has that same drive or opportunity or desire.
So, this post is for everyone who keeps asking me, "How was your first year of college?!", "What did you get into there?" and "How do you feel?" This post should answer all of your questions.
I've come a long way from the shy, heavy girl with the single room who walked into the Coliseum for University Welcome Day.
Through Open Mics and Comedy Night and all the student orgs I am a part of, people have come to know me. Some people I've never met recognize and compliment me. There is even a website that made a video and blog about me and my talents. (
http://marissamidds.wordpress.com/2013/04/24/wvu-student-shines-for-vocal-talent/)
I have some really good friends: Brienna, Elizabeth, Bryan, Jaiana, Jaime, Michael, Matt, and everyone from Anarchappella and U92 and the Bistro...I mean, I finally let them come close to me. Just not too close - I'm still working on the trust part of friendship.
I received a citation for underage drinking. When it happened, I was devastated! I kept asking people to forgive me as I tried to convince them I was a good person. The funny thing out of that long story is the cop asked for my height. I said "5'6" and for weight you can just put fat!" I always laugh when I tell people about that. But, the trip to court and feeling of embarrassment I had was not funny even though most people wore their citations as badges of honor.
I work at the Boreman Bistro. I take my job too seriously for what it is, but I know I am a good worker.
I joined Campus Girl Scouts. I think it's a really cool organization. I helped sell Girl Scout cookies outside of the Mountainlair and cooked dinner for families in need at the Ronald McDonald House. I'm excited to continue representing the values of being a Girl Scout.
I performed with Anarchappella at a coffee shop open mic and it didn't go so well. I was so nervous when we performed at 123 Pleasant Street, but we kicked ass. It's one of my favorite memories so far, even if it is tainted by the person who never showed up.
Elections came up soon after for College Republicans. I was nominated for PR Manager and delivered a pretty good first speech ever - good enough to get elected! I've already begun changing the Twitter and the website to make it more appealing and less boring. This is an awesome opportunity for someone in my major and I have a lot of plans for next year.
I also went on an interview at the Daily Athenaeum (school newspaper) for Web Editor. It was very awkward, but I also landed that position, which is paid. I trained a bit for it and it isn't that hard. Once I get it down better, it won't be as time-consuming, either.
I went to the U92 awards banquet and won the Rookie Newscaster of the Year Award! Even though I did deserve it, I was surprised because I thought that people who deserve things usually aren't the ones recognized. I guess I was wrong(: I applied for Assistant News Director, but I didn't get that position. I think with more development and practice and confidence, I could eventually earn a leadership role there as well.
I somehow lost 15 pounds - the opposite of what the trend is. I'm proud of that and only wish that I didn't gain half of it back at home!
My goal for the first semester of college was to make Dean's List, which
unfortunately I did not make. I had a 3.4. There is no excuse. Somehow it was enough to get invited to the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and I am now a part of that.
I
finished the second semester with the same goal which I did accomplish with a 3.6! Seeing my name on the list really made me smile. I received A's in history, psychology, philosophy, sociology, and my journalism class. My only B was in Italian.
After all of that, it's hard to say exactly how I feel. I was tired and ready for break, but as soon as summer came, I missed West Virginia. I love it there. It's more than I imagined it would be. Sometimes, I think about what college would be like if I was the only student on campus because it's such a perfect place, but some people just suck no matter where ya go. I feel accomplished and ready for more and just completely moved on from who I used to be. I keep growing as a person and that's the important part for me. I'm going to keep working hard on school work and with organizations and at my jobs and at my social life. I'm especially going to keep working hard on becoming who I'm meant to be.
"Mama said 'home is where the heart is' when I left that town. I made it all the way to West Virginia and that's where my heart found exactly where I'm supposed to be. It didn't take much time. It's just south of the Mason-Dixon line." -Lady Antebellum
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