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By Ashanti Scott
“College changes you.” If I had a dollar for every time, I was told that in High School, I would be richer than the three people hoarding more wealth than half of all Americans. College has done more than changed me, it has radically altered the lens from which I see the world. It has changed my psyche on a plethora of political ideas and seemingly social norms. The alterations have been swift, like a rushing wind, and prominent. In 12 weeks, I have created an entire new group of friends while growing farther away from the ones I graduated high school with. My bedtime went from a 10:00 p.m. average to 3:00 a.m. on a good night. I previously would drive home and be greeted by my smiling mother. Now I walk through double doors and flash an orange sticker to the Resident’s Assistant at the desk, whose name I still do not know.
In 12 weeks, I came to the realization that I do not know everything about race relations in America or the unique traits of the LGBTQ+ community. In 12 weeks, I gained an abundance of knowledge on American imperialistic influence on the Guatemalan silent genocide, the overtones of racism entrenched in capitalism and how to Grubhub to the Ekstrom Starbucks. In 12 weeks, I juggled 3 different major ideas and 6 minors and have yet to make up my mind. In 12 weeks, I found a deep love for cigars, jalapeños, Russian trap music, big hoop earrings and Frankfort, Kentucky. I signed my first apartment lease and had my first meal at McCallister’s Deli. In 12 weeks, I read a book on the Obama presidency for class and it made me want him back even more. These 12 weeks have been a whirlwind, a rollercoaster, an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything in the world. They say, “time flies when you’re having fun…” I can attest; it truly does.
Ashanti Scott is a McConnell Scholar in the Class of 2023. She is studying political science and communications at the University of Louisville.