by Cassidy Shemelia, Morrisville High School/Cairn University

Just a semester ago, the word “college” could be described as a terrifying new location with new faces and more homework than is humanly impossible to handle. It is, in fact, just that.

Leaving Morrisville High School to become a student at Cairn University, a biblical university in Langhrone, was more terrifying than anything I have yet to encounter. I had no idea what I was getting myself into, but high school prepared me in more ways than one.

MHS taught me that taking an active role within the student body and community is as important as the courses I am taking. It afforded me the opportunity to be involved in many school and community areas during my four years spent there.

The lessons I learned varied from teamwork, to event planning in Student Senate, to reaching the community through the 21st Century Tutor & Community Service Programs. I have learned to stay connected and be involved.

I moved into Cairn University early in August, and I became a member of the Cross Country team. This was overwhelming to me with the load of 17 credits on my schedule. While already experiencing the never-ending schedule at MHS, I was prepared for this.

I had the opportunity to apply for a position on the Chi Beta Sigma cabinet. Chi Beta Sigma is a group dedicated to planning beneficial events on campus. We recently planned relief efforts for Hurricane Sandy.

I was scared to see how challenging the academics were going to be in college. I have written more papers in one semester than I have a whole year in high school; it’s never-ending.

I have to thank a few of my high school teachers for their efforts in preparing me for college: Mrs. Deliman for preparing me with the ability and skills to write a research paper; Mr. Teefy for teaching me great study skills; Mrs. Hasness for helping me understand mathematical concepts; and Mr. Martino, who taught me to defend my faith within Chemistry and Biology classes.

All my high school classes in one way or another prepared me for what was a successful first semester in college.

College life is great! It’s challenging, but fun! The Cairn community is wonderful!

When finals week came, also known as “hell week,” not to be cliché, but as Zach Efron, the main actor in “High School Musical,” says, “we were all in it together.” With no electricity to write papers, 300 students in dorm room Heritage Hall gathered together and created fun races around the lounges, board games, and musical concerts.

As the first semester came to an end, I can definitely say that my time in Morrisville High School benefited me in many ways. My first semester courses were difficult, but Morrisville taught me to never give up. It was a place that gave me opportunity and taught me how to succeed.

It is up to the individual to make the decision to strive for their goals. I have never disregarded my passion for people and the world. I will become a social worker. I will work in Africa, and I will do what it takes to make these things come true.

As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing you think you cannot do.”

PHOTO CAP: Cassidy Shemelia