'I Know' Preslie

By: Preslie Gifford

As I reflect back four years ago when I started college, it amazes me how much I have changed.

My story is a little different than everyone else. I started college at the University of South Alabama, which is six hours from home. I know... crazy Preslie. Halfway through my college career I decided to transfer to Auburn University.

So, I left everything that I knew for the past two years and basically started over my junior year of college at Auburn.

Some things I wish I would have told myself starting college:

1. You don't have to have it all figured out

2. Quit trying to fit in

3. Sometimes life happens

YOU DON'T HAVE TO HAVE IT ALL FIGURED OUT

I started college as a marine biology major. My plans were to graduate, move to Chattanooga, Tennessee and work for the aquarium there.

I laugh at that now.

All it took was one communications class my sophomore year, and my eyes were opened to the endless possibilities in the communications field.

So, young Preslie,

It's ok that you've changed your major four times. Don't worry, you'll still take classes every summer so you can graduate on time. Be proud of yourself. Trust me, those four years will fly by. I know you want to have it all figured out, but it will work out. I promise.

QUIT TRYING TO FIT IN

I was quite the fashion guru in high school.

Well, when I say guru I mean I thought it was really trendy to wear thrift store shirts with flowers on them. Nothing wrong with that at all, but you could always count on me to stand out.

In college, it was easy to buy the boutique clothes so I would fit in around campus. My theory was if I look like them, they will want to be my friend.

I go from being this bold fashionista in high school to just blending in college.

That's not me.

Young Preslie,

Thank you for finally buying new clothes, but still being you. It's refreshing to see someone who is comfortable in their own skin. Keep being the Preslie that stands out. Friends will come that will want to stand out with you, and they will push you to be your absolute best!

SOMETIMES LIFE HAPPENS

Who would have thought you would transfer universities to be with your boyfriend at the time (now ex... obviously it didn't work out).

Then, your senior year had been so confusing about what it is you want to do with your life.

Dear young Preslie,

Your life is going to go so much differently than you think it is. But, it will work out like it's supposed to. God knows who needs to be in your life and where you need to be. So, trust him (I know it's easier said than done). You'll take an amazing job with a cool company. A man will come along that loves and respects you like you've always dreamed of. Yes, he's out there. Take a deep breath, make yourself better everyday and watch the amazing things unfold before you.

XOXO,

Preslie