Written by Emily Torres
The greatest lesson UHP taught me is that I am more than my academics. (This seems ironic since it is an honors program after all.) For me, UHP has broken the typical high school and college mentality of just being a test score or statistic. Here, I have been able to embrace my creativity beyond a scholarly level.
As someone who is used to being surrounded by community, whether it’s my family, friends, or classmates, UHP has provided me solace in a sometimes daunting environment.
When I feel overwhelmed, I know there’s a little room on the library’s fifth floor waiting for me with open arms. When I start to feel lonely, I know familiar faces are waiting for me in my next honors class. When I feel stressed, I know countless events are waiting for me to join in on the fun. When my head is spinning and I feel confused, I know counselors are waiting to help however they can.
Knowing that I have this support system has made the transition to college a smooth one. As an introvert, social events and partner projects can make me anxious; however, my fellow honors community has welcomed me kindly. I have been invited to art nights and study sessions at the dorms where I can hang out with honors students outside of a classroom setting. The people in this program come from all walks of life, and a lot can be learned from one another through open communication.
More importantly, UHP has allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and get involved with CSULB. This very article is proof of the newfound confidence I have developed from my college experience. If someone told me a year ago that I would be publishing my writing for many to see, I would have never believed it. That is the biggest influence UHP has had on me: opening doors to possibilities unseen.
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