Well, it’s spring break. Two-thirds of my first year at college have gone by, and so quickly. It felt like yesterday I was writing my anxious post about beginning college, and listing my expectations, my fears, and all those interesting juicy details.
Here I am now, having experienced so much. I feel whole perspective might have changed. College really opens you up to the world. I have so many subjects I need to focus on, from saving money and getting a good education, to staying social and happy in life. This is reality, people. And it’s not even real reality, yet. I’m still living off my parents and financial aid, coming back to a “home” during breaks and a weekend or two. Part of me really can’t wait until I have my own home, my own place to come back to, or to never leave.
Classes? They aren’t exactly the best. I’ve always struggled with learning and education. It’s always like walking underwater for me, I have to go at it slow and steady. But in the end, I’m proud of my achievements. I always end up doing the best I can, and really accepting it.
Social life? I guess I have one now. I transitioned from the quiet-needs-to-get-to-know-you-first kid, to, being rather open from the start. I’m still a bit cautious around people, but it doesn’t last very long. I was just telling my friend last night how I’ve changed when it comes to being social. College has allowed me to be more open, more myself. But hey, I can actually converse with people. I’ve met so many new and wonderful people. Santa Cruz is really one of the friendliest and possibly happiest places to be.
Creativity? I’ve lost in touch with my creative side a little, unfortunately. I mean, I’ve still been creative. I still doodle. I also decorate my room in random ways. However, I haven’t designed much, made much art, or really had any inspiration. I was forced to make an experience poster for one of my classes, and it felt so wrong. It felt like I was shoving my talent into something I didn’t want to make. But I feel artsy again lately. I redesigned my portfolio just recently, and I’ve made yet another random short film. It seems these films help me pick up on being creative and break through that artist’s block I get a lot.
Dorm life? I really love my dorm. Absolutely. Sure, it’d be great to have my own personal bathroom, but aside from that, my room is my sanctuary. It’s become my favorite place to be. I’ve decorated it in such a way that I can actually breathe and be at peace after a busy day. And my hallmates have been the best bunch of film-lovers. Being in a film/digital media hall really has its perks. There’s always something that you share in common with people, be it a favorite good movie, or a favorite book.
Speaking of books, I’ve finally read a bunch this week. One book was from my Summer ’10 list, like No One Belongs Here More Than You by Miranda July, which I loved. It was really interesting, I like good short stories. I also just finished Shoplifting from American Apparel by Tao Lin, and am starting his other book, Richard Yates. His writing style is very different, and is starting to make me think a little differently, perhaps more straightforward. It’s been a bit difficult to read his writing for a long period of time, though. Miranda July’s writing was much more smooth and fluid. I’ve yet to be able to really describe Tao Lin’s writing style.
So, I’ll be returning to the college life once more, and I’ll probably end up not writing in this blog until summer time again. It’s hard to keep up with a blog when you’re at college. I’ve still been writing, of course, just more personal writings that I have in a private journal, elsewhere. I guess I can never stop writing, it’s something that’s really important to me. Writing helps get out your thoughts, your feelings. It’s a way to clear your mind, and help yourself be at ease.
Also, it’s springtime! This spring is going to be a brilliant one, I just know it.