Comparison is the enemy of joy.

That summarizes much of the advice people give to young adults

“Don’t compare yourself too much to your peers,” and “Everyone does things at their own pace.”

And all in all, they are true, but as much as you try to listen, it’s nearly impossible not to give in to comparison.

In high school, I was a part of a cohort that all graduated with an associate’s degree, many of whom graduated from college by the time I was done with my senior year. So, sometimes it is difficult to scroll through social media and not feel behind compared to others my age. But at the same time, I’m so immensely proud of them and proud of myself too.

I’ve been thinking about going to college my whole life. I wanted to be an engineer, an artist, an environmental scientist, a computer scientist — but somehow I landed on politics and journalism (obviously not looking for a large salary).

When I enrolled at Wichita State University, I was in the LEAD program, an accelerated program with a three-year bachelor’s that would send me straight to the University of Kansas law school, in and out in five years. But, even then, I knew that kind of fast-tracked program was not what I wanted.

I wanted to stop and smell the roses. I picked up a second degree in journalism in my sophomore year, adding more credits to my degree. But I’m glad to squeeze the most out of this chapter of my life, and, amazingly, there is more left in it.

I think a big reason my college journey has taken longer is that I am a first-generation student, like more than 40% of WSU students. That comes with barriers that not everyone has when entering college.

It’s much different to have financial support or have a full ride than to have every decision weigh on your shoulders, and often your pockets. Having to balance classes while working multiple jobs and taking out loans all takes a toll on either your present or your future. Mistakes can come with lasting consequences, seemingly setting you further behind your peers.

But mistakes foster growth, and when you look back, every decision you made was typically the best one you had at the time.

And though I’ve made some mistakes, I’ve really enjoyed myself at Wichita State.

I spent three years on the Model United Nations team, visiting Chicago and New York to simulate international diplomacy and news reporting. I was a writing tutor, helping people build their confidence and develop their writing. And along the way, I found The Sunflower, where I’ve learned so much more about this campus community and myself than I thought possible, and made lifelong connections and memories.

So, I’m grateful for another chance at a fall semester. To go shopping for school supplies. To obsess over my schedule. To make an assignment tracker. To have another birthday and get older. And eventually, to graduate and say goodbye to this chapter of my life.

Though I do have some regrets — like not going to the Clash of the Colleges my freshman (or sophomore) year, or not joining the pep band or choir — staying for a semester longer, and getting the opportunity to be more involved will never be one of them.

So if you’re like me, and you are scrolling through social media and seeing all of your wonderful, talented peers graduating, it’s okay. We are all on our own journey to success. And when we say goodbye and graduate, it will be wonderful too.