Our human nature makes us creatures prone to adaptation. We are metaphorical chameleons in a way, as we shift our exteriors to blend in, to stand out or simply to survive in the environment we are placed in. We grow up shaping our identities around our surroundings, and in the process, we make up who we are.
I walked up to Klassen residence hall’s front door as a first-year Point Loma Nazarene University student with nothing more than a couple of boxes, a million aspirations and my so-called “identity.” I, along with hundreds of other freshmen, was thrown into unknown territory, as we sought to create friendships, learn the lay of the land and start making Loma feel like a home.
The transition stirred up a whirlwind of feelings, as it was fun, but also overwhelming. On top of having to learn loads of new names, we had to hear about students’ talents, hobbies and dreams as well.
It’s difficult not to fall into comparison as we evaluate our identities alongside everyone we meet or observe. A common question that humans battle with is, “Will I be accepted if I come just as I am? If I show up to this new place, as the unedited version of myself, not enhanced for others viewing?”
Despite PLNU representing itself as a welcoming community, our primitive nature to adapt causes doubts. As students stepped onto campus, they may have noticed that Point Loma is well-known for its surf culture, or that everyone seemed to know the fun new fashion trends.
Katryn Gilbert, a first-year health and human performance major from Oregon, was vulnerable in expressing her experience with comparison as she sought to find her place on campus.
“It’s overwhelming. Social media may show you what California fashion is like, but it’s very different in person. It’s a commitment to dress like that,” Gilbert said.
No matter the student’s prior home, this feeling of being overwhelmed is universal. Walking down Caf Lane and seeing fun patterned tops, cool-colored Adidas and vintage thrifted outfits, often evokes admiration as we assess others, but it can also be intimidating. This feeling of insecurity extends beyond fashion into every facet of our lives, as we are all prone to notice the things which we don’t possess; whether that be an outgoing personality or a rigorous workout routine.
Don’t worry if you currently fall into a place between being insecure or inspired. When entering a new chapter in our lives, there is no right way to feel. These waves of emotion are natural growing pains of change, as new environments tend to shift our lives into alternate directions guided by different influences.
There is nothing wrong with having a desire to try something new. However, this desire must come from a heart posture that yearns for personal growth, rather than for the sake of molding into other people. Nate Kim, a first-year finance and business major, feels motivated by the new opportunities.
“Even though I don’t know how to surf, seeing all the guys go out is inspiring rather than intimidating, as it’s something I’ve always wanted to learn,” Kim said.
I encourage everyone during their years at PLNU to learn how to play the guitar, sign up for singing lessons, chop your hair, enroll in a ministry or take up a new style, if that is what your heart desires.
We must realize that insecurity is a universal piece in the human wheel of emotions. We all experience it at points in our lives, especially when we embark on new journeys. The best advice I could give is to allow yourself to feel it, but not get stuck in it. At times, insecurity hinders our ability to look beyond what we lack and see the capabilities that we do possess. Students at PLNU should be inspired by each other, see the beauty in each other’s talents and allow themselves to change for personal betterment.
Noah Shaw