Self-reflection

So apparently February is already almost halfway over. Not sure when that happened, but it did (but on the bright side, this means I get paid in a few days....)

I've been spending a lot of time doing self-reflection lately. I suppose that's the blessing and curse of being a grad student. I have learned how to reflect on my own experiences to see how they have helped me to get where I am today. I suppose it's also happening because my birthday happens to be next week and I feel as if time is passing by so very quickly. So it's time for what I like to call "then and now"....and anyone can feel free to steal this idea. I've done it before, and I'm sure I'll do it again. This time we're going to go back 5 years...which puts me as a freshmen in college. Which should be an interesting journey in self-reflection. (and procrastinating a paper) Here we go...

February 2008
Age: 18...almost 19.
Living: In Ashland. Specifically on the third floor of Andrews Hall with all of the other freshmen Ashbrook scholars. Room 311.
What did I want to do with my life: I wanted to work in the White House. Like on The West Wing. Yes, the reason I was a political science major was because of that show. However, at this point in my life I hadn't had the realization that maybe (just maybe) this wasn't the right career field for me.
Working: At Panera on breaks from school.
Car I drove: In March I returned home for spring break to find the car I now currently drive. But I did not have any car at school, so I bummed rides to Walmart when I needed things.
My biggest fear: Not getting my grades up high enough to stay at Ashland.

February 2013
Age: 23...almost 24
Living: In Kent. By myself. In an apartment. A very nice apartment that I haven't cleaned in a few weeks. We're not going to talk about that part.
What do I want to do with my life: Make a positive impact on students and help guide them through the collegiate experience in residence life, advising, admissions, or career services.
Working: As an Assistant Residence Hall Director at Kent State University. And loving every. Single. Second. Of. It.
Car I drive: Same car as March 2008.
My biggest fear: Not being able to make a change in the lives of my students.

I've come so far since I was a freshmen at Ashland. I've found direction and purpose, and I've grown up. Now I look forward to the future and what that may bring.

And my future looks very bright.