While my response is a bit after the new year, the current pandemic has led me to some much needed self-reflection. Ten years ago I would have been months away from my 8th grade graduation. For many people, that's not a very pivotal moment, but I remember that was the time when I made a conscious effort to reinvent myself. I had always been shy and focused on academics, but with the start of high school rounding the corner I tried to become more social and, well, popular. I ditched the comfy sweater I wore nearly every day in favor of a trendier wardrobe. The time it took me to get ready each morning doubled in length in order to accommodate some hair straightening and a more extensive makeup routine. And to complete the transition, I even joined the cheerleading squad. Everything was coming together perfectly; my goal was within reach.
If I could give some advice to that younger me, I wouldn't tell her to just be herself. I found that out real quick as my little charade unraveled in the matter of three months. I couldn't resist the snooze button and I came to loathe cheer practice. I quickly reverted back to the old (and real) me, to which I've remained true to this day. What I really wish I could have told myself is to set much bigger and better goals. And perhaps more importantly, I wish I could have told myself that those bigger and better goals aren't as out of reach as everyone from my small town seemed to think they were.
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Sydney Wawrzyniak
Georgetown University
Reston, VA
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