In about four weeks seniors will have closed another chapter in their book only to open a new one. Yes, I am talking about college. Many have already decided where they will further their academic career for the next four years. However, many are also leaving their homes in Chicago for the first time to go to a new place that they’ll call home over these upcoming years. With that in mind, The Caravan approached several future college freshman to ask  “What are you most excited and nervous about for college?” and “Are ready for the challenge?”

Zebulun Freeman – Walker is ready for the experience. To him this marks “the first step into adulthood.” As the days fly by, he is coming closer and closer to leaving for college and it has him nervously wondering about many things, from the college environment, to his future classmates, and how academics will affect him. He wonders whether the college experience will improve him or take a toll on him?

Emmanuel Reid is excited to leave the windy Midwest for the New England winters of Boston University, although he’s “nervous that I didn’t buy enough MC gear to last me the next four years.” Nonetheless, he is confident  that college will teach him how to be independent.

Like Reid, Nnamdi Okabuonye is ready to live on his own and make a name for himself. He’s ready for the chance to explore “and learn about myself,” and “cannot wait to get the opportunity to study abroad.” He knows how much work college will require compared to high school, so he wants to balance his priorities. He also doesn’t want to pack on the so – called college freshman 15, meaning he’s worried about gaining significant weight.

Nick Chambers also is excited about the opportunity to meet new people and develop new friends. “Getting to take on new challenges is great, but the one thing I’m most nervous about is if I’ve made the right choice (for North Central College) and will I fit in that school?”

Connor Spear wants a fresh start and sees college as that opportunity. When he isn’t focused on academics he’ll be playing baseball, taking his talent to another level. He’s extremely excited about living on his own, and unlike some of his classmates, isn’t really nervous about anything.  However, he is sad that he’ll be leaving his friends that he’s been around with his whole life. On the bright side, he cannot wait to meet new people.

Whatever these seniors are most excited or nervous about today, it probably won’t matter when they arrive for their first day in college.  The only thing anyone can do is be yourself and everything will work out.