I remember visiting Moravian College’s campus for Accepted Students Day and thinking I wasn’t ready. I wasn’t ready for college, growing up, or moving onto the next chapter of my life. This feeling of not being ready followed me throughout my journey at Moravian.

When I started my pre-service teaching field experiences, I didn’t feel ready. When it was time for my actual student teaching, I didn’t feel ready. Now, I’m about to graduate, and I don’t feel ready to move into the workforce. 

I have always struggled with my self-confidence, and college was no exception.

On top of that, I also have anxiety issues. I was always the quiet one in class. I struggled to keep my participation grades up, as every time I spoke in front of everyone, my heart raced and I started sweating. These issues are probably why I have always felt like I’m not ready for things.

However, Moravian has shown me time and time again that I am ready. I have learned so much during my time at Moravian.

In fact, I am more than ready! Thanks to my wonderful professors throughout the years, I have gained critical thinking skills that are ever important in today’s day and age. I have learned how to effectively communicate with others, and I even learned leadership skills that will help me in my own future classroom.

I have learned everything I need to know to move forward in my life.

I noticed the biggest change in myself during my senior year. I really started coming out of my shell. This is kind of ironic because everything was virtual due to the pandemic.

Nevertheless, I felt fully supported by my professors and knew that Moravian was a safe space to express my ideas. 

I’ve been told that I shined during my student teaching experience as I became more confident in myself. I was still nervous to speak in front of my students, but I was getting used to it. I am a perfectionist, but Moravian helped me realize that mistakes are okay (and welcome, as we can learn so much from them!). I opened up in my English classes, too, as I started to express my ideas even if I wasn’t sure they were right.

I even found my voice at Moravian thanks to Professor Harris encouraging me to start writing for The Comenian (even if I started a little late in my college career). Writing for The Comenian has allowed me to grow as a writer/English major and highlight the amazing things Moravian does. 

My favorite part of the newspaper is the professor spotlight section. As a future teacher, I love that we have the opportunity to highlight Moravian’s amazing educators.

Moving forward, I have to keep reminding myself that I am ready for whatever comes next. I am well-equipped with all of the life skills I need to succeed. Overall, the most significant journey I had at Moravian was one of building confidence.

I am proud of who I have become, and I owe everything to Moravian.