Dear Future Marissa
My Current-Self
175 Forest St
Waltham, MA 02452
My Past-Self
123 History Ln
Some Town in North Jersey, 12345
Dear Marissa,
I hope this letter finds you well. Time has flown by at an astonishing pace, and as I sit here reflecting, it feels like just yesterday we were navigating high school hallways and dealing with 6 AM alarms. How's Honors Chemistry treating you? Don't worry; you'll eventually move past that, but brace yourself—more challenges lie ahead. Fast forward to the present, and I'm a junior at Bentley University, reveling in classes that truly capture my interest. The journey from high school to where I am now has been a rollercoaster, shaping me into the person I am today.
Freshman year at Bentley was unexpectedly challenging. A new environment, a rigorous routine from swimming, and uncertainties about my future created a complex puzzle. Coming from a somewhat sheltered upbringing in New Jersey, the array of opportunities at Bentley was initially overwhelming. The doors were open, perspectives were abundant, but choosing the right path felt like solving a puzzle. Who am I? I grappled with making the right choices, fearing mistakes and failure.
Then, the global pandemic hit, putting life on pause for over a year. Returning to the comfort of our home in the rural mountains allowed me the space to rediscover myself. Remember that seven-year-old theater geek we used to be? I rekindled with her, embracing my love for music and writing. Journal entries replaced song drafts, and writing became my new creative outlet.
Sending article drafts to Her Campus at Bentley marked a turning point. Positive feedback fueled my passion for writing, leading to over 40 articles and hands-on experience in marketing for the Her Campus Chapter. This ignited a flame to explore other creative opportunities on campus, eventually diving into event planning for the Bentley Marketing Association.
I share this because, despite uncertainties, we are passionate and resilient individuals. Over time, I discovered my passions, leading to personal successes. Trust that, with time, things will work out, even when they seem uncertain.
As you navigate your high school years, prioritize hands-on experience over textbook memorization. Embrace the unknown and get excited about what's next. Be comfortable taking risks; it's the only way to grow. Your close-knit circle may change, but cherish the real friends who support you through thick and thin.
Family, both biological and chosen, is your pillar of strength. Don't hesitate to ask for help; they are your direct support. Don't take them for granted; appreciate every moment. Life is unpredictable, and family becomes more precious with time.
As you approach your future, anticipate the unknown with excitement. Embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. Readjust your priorities, and remember that failure doesn't define you—it guides you. You are stronger than you think.
I'm excited about my future, and you should be too. Whatever comes your way, know that you are capable, and you've got this.
Cheers to new beginnings.
With Love,
Marissa, My Current-Self
