It is extremely uncommon for me to go a week without being asked the question: How is Rice? How is your Texas experience going? My usual response remains consistent: I love the weather, which brightens my mood and motivates me. For example, I can study outside or wear shorts and a T-shirt without having to worry about the cold like in New York. I have also made incredibly intelligent and kind friends that I can connect with over sports and academics. These aspects of my college experience genuinely bring me joy, making them easy to share in casual conversation. However, what I do not include in these conversations are the negative aspects of my experience at Rice—the ones I prefer to keep to myself rather than bring up in passing discussions.

There are several aspects of Rice that I struggle with but rarely discuss openly. The distance from home, the social scene, the absence of a traditional college town, and coursework that does not always align with my interests are all challenges I have faced. Despite these difficulties, I choose not to mention them when answering the common questions about my college experience. My overall experience at Rice has been positive, and it would feel unnecessary or even misleading to dwell on the negatives unless I were engaged in a deeper, more personal conversation. Additionally, I do not want to come across as someone who complains about their college experience, especially when I recognize that my situation is one many students would love to have.

Furthermore, I have seen that even these negative aspects have their hidden positives. For example, while the distance from home has been difficult, it has pushed me outside my comfort zone. The distance at first was difficult because I was missing my dogs and my mom (this was my first birthday away from home). However, being far from home has forced me to adapt to a new environment without the safety net of returning home on weekends. This challenge has ultimately helped me grow more independent and resilient. Each struggle, in its way, contributes to my personal development and shapes my college experience into something meaningful.

Ultimately, my time at Rice has been a mix of both positives and negatives, as is the case with any significant life experience. While I may not always share the full picture in casual conversations, I recognize that the challenges I face are also growth opportunities. My experience at Rice is not perfect, but it is valuable, and I continue to learn and adapt along the way.