Jessica P.
If you're reading this, choose authenticity.
When I began my time at Clemson, I was a mixture of nerves, excitement, and, most of all, uncertainty. I didn't know who my social circle would be, let alone how to find one, and I certainly didn't know how to best "fit in." I brought my academic expectations from high school into college. I held on tightly to my desire for scholastic perfection, all the while yearning to be part of something bigger than myself.
As a freshman, I spent time chasing friendships, activities, and accolades out of insecurity. I knew who I was, but did I want to be that person now? I consistently doubted my ability to thrive in my own skin and pursue my own passions. I was terrified to miss out on the typical "college experience."
By the grace of God, I was wrong about everything, and, by the grace of God, I learned quite a few lessons along the way. In my second semester of college, I decided to jump in and explore involvement on campus, and I quickly learned how transformative it can be to pursue cohesion in your daily life. Authenticity has become a strength that I value deeply. The ability to identify when an action, group, or institution does not align with your values is indispensable. Not only is it peace-giving to find comfort in exactly who you are, but it is also powerful. Utilizing your unique inspiration and skill sets is exponentially more impactful than mimicking the status quo or morphing into something unnatural for the sake of temporary acceptance.
Let me assure you, you will find your people on campus. You will find the organizations, clubs, or groups you belong to. You will find classes and a degree that fulfill you. You will find your excitement in this season of life. But, to do so, you have to be willing to find out who you are, what you value, and the impact you want to make, and then you need to
embrace that wholeheartedly. More than anything, please remember, your authentic self is the best, most amazing you that you can be. I promise. I am excited to see the change you make, and I am honored to be a student alongside you. I am honored to exist in a community of individuals who can be, and should be, no one better than themselves.
"But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me."
1 Corinthians 15:10
Jessica P., Clemson University
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