Gabrielle Chavez, a senior at Johns Hopkins University, reflects on her transformative journey from the sunny skies of El Paso, Texas, to the cloudy atmosphere of Baltimore. Initially, she struggled to adapt to the intense academic environment, but over time, she discovered ways to find peace and personal growth.
Chavez, who majors in Computer Engineering with a minor in Entrepreneurship and Management, began her college experience with high hopes. She envisioned a vibrant social life filled with late-night outings and engaging lectures, reminiscent of scenes from popular films. However, the reality of her freshman year quickly set in, revealing a far more challenging academic landscape than she had anticipated.
The early weeks of her first semester were marked by an overwhelming sense of anxiety. What she believed would be “Midterm Exams” quickly evolved into a series of demanding assessments that tested her limits. The workload at Hopkins proved to be intense, and as the fall days grew shorter and darker, Chavez felt increasingly isolated.
“I was overwhelmed with the feeling of not belonging,” she recalled. The camaraderie she imagined with classmates faded as she found herself spending long hours alone in the library instead of socializing. While her family remained proud of her achievements, the pressure to succeed weighed heavily on her.
As winter approached, Chavez began to adapt to her new environment. She discovered solace in small moments, such as enjoying hot tea in the Fresh Food Café and sitting in Keyser Quad at night. A particularly memorable evening involved witnessing a performance by the Entertainers Club, where she found comfort in the synchronized flames dancing around her.
Chavez’s determination to improve her college experience led her to actively seek new connections and resources. She reached out to peers and utilized campus support services, which proved beneficial in navigating her academic challenges.
As the semester progressed, her efforts began to pay off. With renewed optimism, she concluded her first year on a high note, reflecting on the personal growth she had achieved.
Now, as a senior, Chavez looks back on her journey with pride. “I’ve been able to grow as an individual,” she states. Once intimidated by new experiences, she now actively seeks them out. Her engagement with the Baltimore community, including volunteering at local soup kitchens, has helped her appreciate the city in new ways.
Chavez emphasizes that while the sky at Hopkins still differs from the sunny canvas of her hometown, it no longer feels confining. Instead, it serves as a reminder that peace can be found anywhere, regardless of the circumstances.
Through her experiences, Gabrielle Chavez exemplifies resilience and adaptability, proving that challenges can lead to profound personal transformation.
