Happy Independence Day!!

Happy Fourth of July!!

With this Independence Day, I can't help but think about the meaning of the word "independence." Sure, it means "freedom", and "apart from," but it also can have a very personal meaning, as well.

For me, being a college student, "independence" means having to do things on my own, learning how to take care of myself and be an adult. My "independence day" of sorts was move-in day. That was the day that began my journey of independence, of being on my own.

For those of you who are about to begin your college career, your "independence day" is quickly approaching. Soon, you will move into your college and have to figure out how to be on your own. When you find yourself with this new-found  freedom, you are going to be faced with a choice. Do you choose to follow what the others on campus are doing to be safe and fit in? Or are you going to be revolutionary and do something different, something that works for you?

In a weird way, going off to college is kind of like how America was established. People came to America in search of freedom, in search of a different way of doing things and a different way of life. When it asserted its freedom with the Declaration of Independence all those many years ago, a choice also had to be made. Is this new nation going become like all others in the world? Or is it going to create its own extraordinary path?

I think it is evident which option was chosen.

In your case, you, too should choose to create your own path. Use this new independence to mold the beginnings of your future. Create a sturdy foundation on which to build the rest of your wonderful life. And don't be afraid to assert yourself when you need to!

Be revolutionary, my friends. Happy Independence Day! (Now go outside and celebrate with a BBQ!)

-That Revolutionary University Girl