Letter to My First-Year Self: Eliran Oz
Dear Freshman Year Eliran:
This is not how you were going to expect your senior year of college to end. It’s not how anyone thought this year would end. But here you are, writing this from home instead of your dorm room. But the current circumstances notwithstanding, just know this: it was all worth it. These past four years have seen you grow more than you could ever expect, you have surrounded yourself with amazing people, and you’ve been able to accomplish so much. Studying abroad, being an RA, being able to lead and take part in an amazing Jewish community, and studying I guess. Your ego might have even been knocked down a peg or two.
Four years and tens of thousands of dollars might seem daunting and a steep hill to climb. But just know that there are so many people you can count on, that will help you through, maybe give you a push every now and then. But the only way to get anywhere is to take the initiative. Count on those around you to lighten the load, but be decisive and make decisions. Say yes more often than saying no. Be the person others can count on, not to receive anything in return but just to be the person you want others to be. The smallest acts of kindness and support can have the greatest of effects. Be kind to others, be supportive, and take chances. You’ll come out alright the other side, no matter what the world can throw at you.
Forever yours
Senior Year Eliran
Eliran is a Senior in CAS studying Politics and Mediterranean Studies and a member of Ani V’Ata.
