Wow. This year has flown by at Ohio State, and it is so bittersweet. The people I’ve met and the experiences I have shared with them have all been so wonderful. In this blog post, I’m going to give my two-cents on the biggest lessons that I have learned this year.

Had Me at “Hello”

This sounds super cheesy and simple, but if you recognize someone or see somebody you’d like to talk to, just say hi! Being kind and welcoming is the easiest way to create new relationships. Stepping out of your comfort zone and stepping up to the task of being bold can be scary but it is so worth it.

Become a Part of Something Bigger

The biggest blessing to me this year has been joining a sorority. If I could recommend one thing to you wherever you are in life, join a group or community that allows you to be your best self. This could be a sorority, a club, a recreational sports team, anything! Surround yourself with people and things that spark joy.

A Flower Needs Water to Grow

In order to become your best self- whatever that may be to you, you need to take care of yourself. If you need to take a day for yourself that is totally alright. It is okay to be selfish sometimes if it means it will make you happy. In order to grow, you should do things that serve you.

Take a Picture it Will Last Longer

Take lots of pictures and write down your experiences in a journal or on your phone. Time goes by sooooo fast when you are having fun, and taking pictures/journaling helps when reflecting on all the happy (& not so happy) times you have had. This way you can see how far you’ve come.

Love Your People

If you love someone, show them! Find your people and love them hard. The people you meet may not remember the exact conversations you shared, but I can guarantee that they will remember the way you made them feel. Share all the love you have to offer with others and I promise it will find its way back to you.

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Thank you, Ohio State. I love you!

Ainsley