By Mariana Navarrete, Arts & Culture Editor
Time goes by really fast and the best we can do is to be present.
I remember in my first swim practice with the team at Saint Leo University, a senior swimmer told me, “Enjoy every second, because in a day you will be applying to jobs and leaving college,” and here I am, writing a piece of advice, looking for jobs, with an overwhelming uncertainty that I do not wish on any person.
Still, during my last few weeks here at Saint Leo, all I am pursuing is to enjoy the present, acknowledging it is not that bad actually, it is pretty great, and I am very privileged to be here.
The lake has incredible views at any time of the day—if you haven’t done so yet, kayak at least once! The food here is not THAT bad, like everyone says—there are some great fries and calzone every now and then. I have met very genuine-hearted people here, too.
There were many times I worried too much about the future: future assignments, future events, future plans. I wanted things to move quick so I can go to the next thing and the next, and I forgot to stop and pause multiple times.
During that hustle, I took things seriously and I strongly suggest not doing that, since it is very draining. I am not saying to not care about a quiz or miss all your classes. What I mean is to not take things personally and grow from your downfalls in any sphere of your life, not just college. After you grow, move on—there is more life to it.
In your time at Saint Leo, try to pursue authenticity. Find one or various passions or something you deeply care of. It is fine if your friends do not have the same ones—root for your own interests.
Dare to be vulnerable, ask for help. Saint Leo provides us with multiple resources for personal, academic, and professional success—all we need to do is use them.
As an international student, I did not know many things about the U.S. college experience and education system. We can’t do everything, we do not know everything, nor we will ever. Ask for help, for anything needed.
In the end, college is a tiny facet of your life that helps, but does not determine what you will do and who you will become. In the meanwhile, enjoy.
