Carson Yenchar: The start of sophomore year HOLD

Carson Yenchar is a sophomore majoring in ...

Previously, I wrote about how my freshman year impacted me in different ways, and what I  learned from it. Sophomore year already has proven to be quite difficult for me, even though the semester has barely even begun.

I have come to the realization that after this year, I will be starting to focus more on my career. That means I will start taking classes that pertain to my field of work, and I will need to start searching for places that will eventually hire me as a potential employee.

Currently, I am struggling with my own mental health — mostly due to anxiety. I tend to grow very emotional when things don’t turn out the way I hoped they would, or particularly, when I don’t do my best work on an assignment.

Anxiety isn’t a pleasant feeling, as it feels like there’s this constant gnawing in your stomach, and it makes sleeping and eating impossible some days. I’ve dealt with anxiety for most of my life, and I have always been a sensitive person in general.

I keep telling myself that no one is perfect. Life is hard, but you come out the stronger person every time simply by persevering.

I have become a stronger person by trying new things, and pushing myself to talk to more people and to make new connections. As I think back to high school, when I first joined theater, that is what helped me.

This year, I filled out an application for a study abroad program in the U.K., and it is related to my minor, Women and Gender Studies. I am excited for this opportunity, as I have never been to Europe, or anywhere outside of the United States.

While I have not heard if I have been accepted yet, just the thought of traveling to a new place fills me with anticipation. I am excited to learn about new cultures and ideas I never would have thought of before. I believe that stepping out of one's comfort zone is both an exhilarating and rewarding feat.

I am constantly surprising myself by how much I can handle, and how I’m capable of doing things I never dreamed I could do. I am ready to take this step towards strengthening my confidence and my inner self.

Sophomore year is challenging me right now, but in the end, I know I will be a stronger person because of it. I will continue to push myself by focusing on what I want in life, and I will pursue what I am passionate about.

My anxiety will probably never go away, but I know I can push on. Fortunately, MSU has a ton of resources on campus available to offer support such as Counseling and Psychiatric Services.