Sapphire P.
Photography by Alex Gogo
If you’re reading this, college is teaching you to care for yourself.
I hope you know that learning to love and prioritize yourself is one of the most important lessons college can teach us. Now that I’m about to graduate, I have been reflecting on my four years at university. I look back at it both fondly and with regret. I’m fond of all the wonderful friends and memories I have made along the way. The friends I have are people who consistently uplift and support me. They’re genuine and some of the most amazing people I’ve ever met. Thanks to NYU’s large student population, I’ve had the opportunity to meet many people, and each one has taught me something unique.
The thing I regret most about college is getting into a relationship - one that was pretty toxic. While I was able to learn a lot about myself and grow stronger from the experience, I also lost myself and became someone I didn’t respect. I lost friends whom I really appreciated; I lost my peace of mind, and I lost my dignity. However, I should note that I am aware that not all relationships are like this, and not all end badly. Some relationships are filled with love, respect, and loyalty, and I think these things are truly precious. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to experience this in college, and I lost a lot that I wish I hadn’t.
I believe that my relationship consumed all of me and really pushed me to my breaking point. From sophomore year to senior year, I really went through it with only one person, and they impacted my soul in ways that no one else could.
But by being forced into a terrible place and having to work through it alone, I now know a new level of perseverance and fortitude. I wasn’t truly loved by my partner, so I had to step back and work on loving myself. I never really thought about “loving yourself” and what that entailed. I just thought it meant “don’t hate yourself”. Loving yourself really means appreciating your character and valuing your actions and decisions.
So, if you’re reading this and going through a tough time with your partner, just know that you’re not alone. You’re definitely stronger than you think, and you’re capable of anything you set your mind to. The first step is being able to respect and love yourself.
Sapphire P., New York University
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