Gabrielle Chavez, a senior at Johns Hopkins University, reflects on her transformative college experience and the challenges she faced while adapting to a new environment. Originally from El Paso, Texas, known as the Sun City, Chavez found solace in the clear skies and vibrant sunsets of her hometown. However, upon arriving in Baltimore for her freshman year, she encountered a stark contrast that would shape her college journey.
During her first weeks at Johns Hopkins, Chavez was filled with excitement as she navigated her new life. She anticipated a college experience full of late-night adventures and engaging lectures. Yet, the reality of an intense academic workload quickly set in. The transition from high school to college proved to be more demanding than she had imagined.
As she approached midterms, what she expected as “Midterm Exams” transformed into overwhelming challenges. The pressure mounted and, with the arrival of shorter days and cloudier skies, Chavez began to feel isolated and anxious. The comforting connection she once had with the sky was replaced by a sense of confinement.
In her own words, she describes the shift: “What I had originally imagined as late nights out with friends turned into late nights at the library by myself.” This feeling of loneliness persisted throughout her freshman semester, but Chavez remained determined not to let her family down. They were proud of her achievements, especially as the first in her family to attend college.
Over time, Chavez adapted to her new environment. She discovered small comforts, such as sipping hot tea from the Fresh Food Café and enjoying quiet evenings in Keyser Quad. A pivotal moment occurred when she witnessed the Entertainers Club practicing. The sight of synchronized flames dancing captivated her, providing a sense of peace that carried her through the semester’s final weeks.
As her time at Johns Hopkins progressed, Chavez actively sought opportunities to connect with others and access resources for personal growth. Her hard work paid off, allowing her to finish the semester with renewed optimism. “I began to go out of my way to meet new people,” she recalls, highlighting her commitment to embracing the challenges of college life.
Now, as a senior, Chavez reflects on her journey with pride. She credits her experiences at Johns Hopkins for her personal growth and newfound confidence. Once intimidated by new experiences, she now actively pursues them. Outside of her studies in Computer Engineering with a minor in Entrepreneurship and Management, she volunteers at local soup kitchens, cultivating a deeper appreciation for Baltimore.
While the sky in Baltimore remains different from her home, it no longer feels restrictive. Instead, it serves as a reminder that peace can be found in any environment. This perspective marks a significant shift for Chavez, who has come to embrace the complexities of her college experience.
Chavez’s story resonates with many students facing similar transitions. It highlights the importance of resilience and adaptability in navigating new challenges. Through her journey, she embodies the spirit of determination and growth, proving that one can thrive even in unfamiliar circumstances.
