I began my freshman year at a different university, but I knew deep down that my end goal was to go to the University of Illinois. I needed to be brave enough to take the chance. With already enough credits, I applied to Illinois as a transfer student in the Fall of 2023, even though I just graduated high school in May 2023. So, I told myself, "Why not?" The very day they sent out decisions, my mom texted me way too early. I got out of bed and opened my laptop, only to find a shattered screen; my life just likes being suspenseful. Putting that aside, I anxiously pulled it up on my phone and got the navy and confetti filled celebration screen: "Sadie, You're an Illini!" I celebrated over the phone with my parents, followed by a best friend, who screamed and celebrated with me over FaceTime. Again, this was way too early in the morning! Fixing my laptop came secondary and we laughed it off after getting such incredible news!

A part of me always knew I wanted to go to Illinois, but I didn't realize how much until I found out that I'd been accepted. I was 18, had already started a college journey at one school, made new friends, adjusted to being away from home, and now I was going to have to start it all over again. I was scared of moving again, being even further from home, doing the chore of packing and unpacking into a residence hall while also trying to meet new people and connect to the university. Basically, I'd be repeating another first-semester experience and needed to continue to take chances, be brave, make new friends, and set goals. I had paired up in a quad suite with random roommates, but it all worked out great. In fact, my new roommates also helped me meet new people and adjust. A best friend convinced me to try the continuous open bidding process, so I went to Alpha Gamma Delta and immediately made friends and felt at home. I joined ATA (Agricultural Education Club) and Collegiate Farm Bureau. I've met some amazing people through my journey at Illinois.

If I hadn't taken chance after chance, I wouldn't be where I am today. I have an amazing support system that got me through my fears of the "what if's". At first, entering college is intimidating, but everyone is in the same situation, so put yourself out there and take chances.