One Year

Yesterday was my one year anniversary of being at Mount Vernon. It feels strange to think I've been here for a year, because it feels like I've been here for a lot longer. When I made the decision to transfer, I had no idea what was going to happen. It wasn't easy; in fact it was really hard at some points, but I'm so thankful that God brought me here.

Coming to Mount Vernon for spring semester was very intimidating. I was starting during the middle of the school year. Everyone already had their set group of friends and knew their way around campus. I went from a giant state school to a small private one, which are worlds different from each other. I didn't know anyone, had to find my way around, figure out my classes and how everything worked. I was basically starting college all over again. I've said this before; if transferring is what God wants you to do, by all means do it. But if you don't have to, don't! It's a very tedious and stressful process. Honestly, I was terrified my first week here. I didn't really know what to do with myself. (If you knew me at all last year, there were quite a few times where I was a nervous wreck) Then, God started to put people in my life. They saw past all my anxiety and stress and accepted me for who I was. Wonderful people like my small group leader Rachel who gave me her shoulder to cry on when I only knew her for 2 days. My dear friend and teammate Alex who invited me to go running every week and would talk with me about my struggles. She also was one of the people who influenced me in my decision to run cross country again. There are many more people who have been great blessings in my life but if I put them all down I would run out of space! If you guys read this, I can't thank you enough for how much you've helped me. I care about you so much and I'm so thankful God put you in my life.

Looking back on this year, I can't believe how far I've come. I'm doing things that I never thought I would do. I'm on the cross country team, something that I absolutely hated in high school has now become a love of mine. I help lead worship for Athletes in Action, something I never expected to do. And I sing too! If you had asked me to sing a year ago, I would have adamantly refused. I'm a small group leader to 8 wonderful girls. I love seeing how God is working in their lives. I can't wait to see what this semester holds.

This past year has had its share of bumps in the road, but I wouldn't change it. God used this to help shape and grow me as a person and learn to seek Him in everything I do. It's so comforting to know He's been with me and will continue to be there for me. I'm so glad I came to Mount Vernon. This is where I'm supposed to be.