A Letter to my 18-Year-Old Self

Dear Younger Self,

Right now, I know you are focused on who likes you and maybe even how you will fit in at school. The summer is ending and college awaits you. I know that college seems intimidating and you fear rejection. Don’t fret, my dear, you will do just fine.

You fear disappointing your parents. I want to tell you that it will be okay. Your parents couldn’t be more proud of you. Everything you’ve ever wanted is over there on the other side.

There’s independence. Acceptance. There’s college and a career — one with dignity and a livable wage. There are friends ones that you will cherish; the best you’ll ever have. There is love, so much love from the ones that matter most. There are tests and trials. There is some failure. Oh, my darling, there are some rainy days. Some days you will feel so blue, know that trouble doesn’t last always and you will pull through.

Here’s what you need to know or what you already know but may not fully believe just yet:

What if I told you that next year you would step out of your circle of friends and run for Miss Sophomore, representing the entire class of 2015? What if I told you that you would win? What if I told you that this accomplishment would open so many doors for you in the university?

How about if I told you that in three and a half years you would graduate early with honors? Jasmin, you are the first in your family to finish in less than four years.

What if I told you that on your graduation day, your future boss would send you an email requesting to meet you? What if I told you that in two short weeks you would enter the working world with a full-time job? That one email would be the start of a brand new career.

So walk on campus with your head high and shoulders back. It will all come together soon.

With all of my love,

Your older self

 

Editor’s Note: Clairemont enthusiastically welcomes Jasmin Sessoms to our team! Follow this former beauty queen’s journey as she documents her first 30 days in a Raleigh PR agency.