Alaina Harris

It is unbelievable that my freshman year has nearly reached its end. It feels as though it was just yesterday when I moved in early to participate in Media Intensive, stepping into the world of Vanderbilt full of uncertainty, excitement, and questioning what opportunities were awaiting in my future. I believe it is only warranted that I wish my freshman year farewell by recapping my favorite parts of the school year and my final send-off words of advice. 

The best experience of my freshman year was hands-down being a member of MyCommonsLife. Being so welcomed to Vanderbilt by Jim (our media advisor) truly had a significant impact on my freshman year. Jim always made sure that media was a safe place, he listened to me vent about the most random things, yet always gave me the best advice I could ask for, and he never silenced my thoughts, but rather encouraged me to think creatively and explore the world around me without boundaries. When I think of Vanderbilt, Jim is no better encapsulation of everything I hoped this university would be. Within MyCommonsLife, Tamyra and I also started a podcast called “A Common Situation,” which gave me an amazing outlet to look forward to every week. We laughed, nearly cried, and vented every week on our podcast, and always reminded our audience to “stand on business.” Thank you Tamyra for being such an amazing co-host, there is no one else I would rather record with, even on my worst days. Before I start crying, I am going to switch the topic. 

Next up, my friends truly made the Vanderbilt experience so grand. First, Memorial Floor 5 is the BEST floor, full of hilarious, encouraging, and passionate girls who look out for one another in every circumstance. These girls have made Vanderbilt my home, and I will never forget yapping with them until 1 am and blasting country music in our room. Sending extra love to my roommate, Alessandra, who was so kind, warmhearted, and served as a home away from home. You have been the best roommate I could have ever asked for. Secondly, I also made my best friends in my HOD class this year. I don’t know where I would be without our group chat, farmer’s market runs, rand lunches, basketball games, Satay stops, peer editing, concerts, and so much more. To each of you, thank you for being so comforting, listening, and spontaneous. This would not be Vanderbilt without you. Also, to my DSP spring pledge class, thank you for being HILARIOUS, supportive, and ultimately some of the most inspiring people on this campus. I am so proud of you for all you do and who you are 🙂 

Lastly (because I could write 15 pages about my favorite parts of Vanderbilt), Suzie’s has undeniably gotten me through my freshman year. That iced vanilla latte with oat milk has been my go-to, and it is hilarious when the employees already know my order. I have certainly used most of my meal swipes on Suzie’s, and you can be sure I will do the same next year. If you see me there majority of the time during finals week, do not be surprised.

If there is anything I would have done differently this year, I would have certainly stopped and smelled the roses. I was often so focused on a to-do list, a future plan, or an upcoming project that I failed to realize where my feet were. This is understandable, as Vanderbilt is definitely a rigorous school, but I could have lived more in the present this year. This year actually flew by…. people weren’t exaggerating when they said college flies faster than high school. Next year, I will try to make sure I am soaking in even the mundane moments of college, as one day I know I will look back and wish I was back on Vanderbilt’s campus.

Overall, I had an amazing freshman year. Yes, I did consume copious amounts of caffeine at times to stay awake and spent countless hours in Central Library, but looking back on this year, I can really only see the good. To my high school self, please know that it did work out for you, even better than expected. You have been to 5 concerts, 2 date parties, joined exciting organizations, met so many inspiring people, and had success in your academics. I also learned so much about myself, and I am excited to continue my self-growth during my time at Vanderbilt. To my future self, please never forget to stop and see the good. I know classes will get harder, and I will have to start thinking about careers soon, but in the midst of the chaos, continue to surround yourself with positive, kind-hearted people that will make this journey worthwhile. Also, remember that there is only one you, so prioritize your well-being above all! I know that my future is bright and awaiting my arrival, but I am so grateful for my freshman year for showing me what Vanderbilt is all about.

P.S. I am in Suzie’s writing this, and I did start crying.  

If you are anything like me, which you probably are since many of us are certainly overachievers, you may find yourself only honing in on skills, activities, and organizations that you know you will excel in. Personally, I have a tendency to be fearful of stepping outside of the comfort zone I have created for myself, whether it pertains to personal, academic, or professional endeavors. Coming to Vanderbilt has actually forced me to partake in things I never would have before, learning to ultimately embrace uncertainty. 

To be completely honest, it is terrifying to take new paths and try new things when the outcome it will produce is currently uncertain to you. Whether that is applying for a club, taking a random class you know nothing about, or acquiring a new skill, there is a sense of hesitation that lingers during your process of learning. I find myself asking if my new path is going to lead to failure, if it is beneficial to my future, and if it fits in the path I have seemingly curated for myself. 

Throughout my time at Vanderbilt, especially the Spring semester, I have learned the importance of letting go of the urge to be in absolute control of my future. Yes, I am still proactive in discovering my passions, pursuing professionalism, and excelling in my academics, but above all, it is so important to remember that you do not have absolute control over what the future holds. Apply for the club. Talk to someone you have never met before. Send the email. Stop letting the fear of uncertainty hold you back from reaching your full potential. Don’t ignore your subtle urges to try something new in fear that you will not excel in it or get rejected from it. 

If I could sum up my freshman year, this is definitely my biggest takeaway. Embrace the fact that you are so young and capable of consistently trying new things. Don’t be afraid to step outside of the parameters you have preemptively created for yourself. Expand your horizons, test yourself, and don’t forget to have fun while you are at it 🙂