Starting My College Journey

 Starting college is something people have talked about for years, but experiencing it feels completely different. When I first arrived at Saint Mary’s, I realized quickly that this new chapter would bring experiences I had never faced before. Like many freshmen, I arrived on campus feeling excited, nervous and curious about what the next few years would look like. I was stepping into a place where I would be responsible for my own schedule, my academic success, and my personal growth.  

As the first few weeks went by, I noticed my college environment was from the spaces I had been used to before. Being in a new setting meant meeting people from many different backgrounds and perspectives. While diversity is one of the strengths of college, it also made me aware of my own identity and what it means to show up in spaces where you might not always see people who look like you.

College quickly became more than just attending classes. It became a place where I started to reflect on who I am, where I come from, and how my experiences shape the way I see the world.

Being A Black Women at a Predominantly White Institution

One of the things I noticed early in my college experience was what it feels like to attend a predominantly white Institution. Walking into classrooms, study spaces, or campus events sometimes meant realizing that I was one of the few Black students in the room. Experiences like that can make you more aware of your identity in ways you may not have thought about before.  

Being a Black woman in spaces where there are fewer people who share your background can sometimes feel isolating, but it can also be empowering. It encourages you to stand confidently in who you are and the experiences that have shaped you. Instead of shrinking yourself into space, it becomes about learning how to take up space with confidence and authenticity.  

These moments have helped me become more aware of how important representation is. Seeing people who share your experiences or background can create a sense of belonging that makes environments feel more comfortable.

The Importance of “Loving the Skin You’re In”

Love the Skin You’re in has truly helped me embrace my identity, my background, and the experiences that make me who I am. Being surrounded by conversations and spaces that encourage self-acceptance has helped me reflect more deeply on what it means to truly appreciate who I am. It’s easy to feel pressure to blend in or fit certain expectations but learning to appreciate my individuality is what builds real confidence.  

The message from Love the Skin You’re in has been a reminder that my identity is something to be proud of. It has encouraged me to walk into every space with confidence and to recognize that my experiences and perspective have value.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Although I am still early on my college journey, I already know that the lessons I am learning will stay with me long after graduation. As a nursing major, my goal is to pursue a career where I can help others and make a positive difference in people’s lives.  

At the same time, I want to continue embracing the mindset of self-acceptance and confidence. Loving the skin you’re in means recognizing your worth, embracing your identity, and understanding that your story matters.

College is only beginning of this journey. As I continue moving forward, I hope to keep growing, learning, and standing confidently in who I am.  

Sariah Gipson – Freshman

Nursing Major