A time for growing up

As a senior soon to graduate, I feel like I am at a crucial juncture in my life. The looming future is full of unknowns and anxiety as the "real" life is approaching after graduation. The idea that I now have — find a job, look for a place to live, even begin to consider the prospects of marriage — is terrifying to the point where I'd much rather not think about it too much. So I would like to take a step back and look backwards over the past three years and marvel at how much God has shaped me and my life to prepare for what is ahead.

Looking back, I can see what a different person I've become since my entering freshman year. I remember being somewhat lost, slightly awkward, and frantically looking for my social niche. My perspective wasn't wide enough to seriously consider other people in my life as I was so wrapped up in my problems, my studies, my time. I quickly realized I wasn't exceptionally bright (Berkeley just has too many smart people) and had to learn with the reality of being ordinary. Church and God took a backseat as I was having enough trouble adjusting to the independence and freedom of college life.

It wasn't long until I realized that it was my faith and the church community that really shaped my character and eased my transition to the college experience. Whenever the stress of midterms and finals got overwhelming, there were always upperclassmen willing to cook for us. By living with my friends in an apartment, I learned patience when roommate conflicts arose. My commitments to serving at my church taught me to manage my time well and to relate to people I never thought I would get to know. Many of these lessons were not easy to learn, but they have given me the strong foundation upon which I can look forward to a bright future.

Whenever I reflect upon my years in college, I am always filled with a sense of awe and gratitude. It is truly amazing how God was able to transform a selfish, immature college freshman to someone who can view life with a wider perspective in respect to God's kingdom. The anxiety and unknowns about my future still remain, and as my graduation approaches, I get more and more nervous and rather panicky. Despite my fears, I have strong trust that God will continue to lead me in my life and ultimately provide for me everything I need to carry out the purpose of my life. My prayer is that all of the freshman this year and for the years to come will be able to experience the same kind of love and guidance I have received from God through their years in college.