When I look back at my four years at Wooster, Iím torn. I canít decide whether to feel happy that it happened, upset that itís over or wonder what could have been if I had made different choices.
When I was in high school applying to colleges, my mother always said that it didnít matter what school I chose, because one can get the same education anywhere as long as they make the most of it.
These words came back to me recently, and it made me wonder if I really had made the most of my college experience.
I regret not attending more campus events, or being involved in more activities, or not trying my hardest in some of the classes I wasnít so passionate about.
Sometimes I wonder about the people I could have met or the things I could have accomplished if I had been more involved (or less lazy). I regret not being as outgoing or outspoken as I am now.
I regret playing it safe most of the time, not taking as many risks as I should have. I regret not speaking up more in class, or asking more questions.
Regardless, I love the place I am in now. Everything that has happened to me, whether good or bad, has taught me many things, and introduced me to many people.
During my first year, even though I realized that the sciences werenít for me, I was introduced to my roommate and best friend for years to come, and who I canít imagine not living with now.
My FYS, while quite ridiculous in so many ways (as Kate and I laugh about it now), brought me closer with the other members of our group.
I will never forget our inside jokes, fighting for the best couches, the numerous options of tea and especially the endless, humorous and often ludicrous discussions about relationships and the meaning of life (which we never figured out).
Taking classes that I never thought Iíd like introduced me to my major and made me love studying the workings of other cultures and applying that to wider contexts.
If nothing else, the questions posed by my professors in my classes will stick with me for a long time.
While I certainly do not remember everything I was taught during my years here, I have learned important lessons and skills, and will leave here with memories, experiences, stories and friendships that I wouldnít trade for the world.
I learned how to write, research and think critically. I met people that are worth visiting for years to come.
I spent a semester on the other side of the world and developed a passion for travel. I spent time on my own in several other countries.
I gained self-confidence. I developed my photography skills. Became more independent. Learned to take risks.
Finally figured out what my calling is. Met the love of my life.
These are the things that, despite my regrets, make Wooster the best thing that has ever happened to me. It opened new doors, but more importantly, it created many more of them for me to open later in life.