Laney S.

If you’re reading this, it won’t be like this for long. 

This letter is dedicated to anyone who feels as if they are drowning in their own responsibilities, anyone who feels like a hamster on a wheel that’s moving too fast, anyone who struggles in silence. 

For me, the past year has been the most challenging of my life. Tackling a major and unanticipated surgery in the middle of my most academically rigorous semester. Balancing recovery with my dream internship while trying to study for the LSAT and keep good grades. Taking the LSAT and applying to law schools while trying to enjoy every moment I have left before I walk the stage and turn my Clemson ring this December. I have always committed to bulking my resume. To get into college, to get into law school, to make the people in my life who have poured everything they have into me proud. I have always held with me the paralyzing fear of letting people down.

I have always prided myself on what I could balance. Wanted to be the person there for everyone, the person younger me would be so proud of. I have accomplished everything I wanted to, and overcome every obstacle sent my way, but at what cost? Wishing days away, wanting time to pass faster just to get through it all? Having a countdown in my phone until admissions decision days, graduation day, the end of the college career I prayed and cried over all four years of high school? I was so focused on the future that I didn’t mind drowning in the present if it meant I got what I wanted.

I have always loved letters. If you know me well you’ve seen the hand-written notes that line the windows in my apartment and my calendar, reminders that I have an incredible support system that understands the way my mind works. The people I’ve met at this amazing school who believe in my own dreams as much as I do. My family, friends, loved ones, even from my bosses and people who wished me well as I exited waitressing jobs and concluded rhythmic cycling classes. I hope this letter impacts you. If even one person feels seen and acknowledged then I know this was worthwhile. 

This past year I have learned lifelong lessons that I will carry with me far beyond my educational career. The value of knowing that this is only temporary. Four years (or for me, 3.5) that conclude and you will never get them back. This place is home, and it always will be. To me, to you, to those who will come long after us and leave their mark. We as Clemson students are part of something bigger than ourselves, whether we see it or not. So take a deep breath, you can face this. It won’t be like this for long.

I will never be able to put into words the gratitude I have for those who have supported me and advocated for me this entire journey. The people make the place, and you’ve all made Clemson feel like home. Ever loyal.

Laney S., Clemson University

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