Editor's note: This is a series on NNUSports.com titled "Letter to My Freshman Self." It is based off of The Players' Tribune's "Letter to My Younger Self" series. You can read other letters here.

Dear Freshman Year Co,
 
Remember when you were 3-years-old and dropped off your oldest sister at college? You asked mom, "When do I get to go to college?" Well, 15 years later and you've finally made it! You've been waiting for this for so long, so enjoy it, make memories, challenge yourself.
 
College is different than high school in many areas. First, classes are challenging, especially during soccer season, and you are traveling. Talk to your professors, ask questions. It's OK to let people know that you need help. Learn to love staying at the library until midnight, studying and hanging out with friends.
 
Second, the people on the team and at school really care. They will be the reason you love NNU. Never refuse to get coffee with someone new; you will enjoy countless conversations and friendships. All the awkward first meetings are worth it for when it's senior year and 15 people say hi as you walk from one end of campus to the other. 
 
Third, soccer is going to be the most challenging it has ever been. Not only will it push you physically with endless hours of weightlifting, practice and fitness tests, it will challenge you mentally. Playing time, personal performance and injuries will push you to remember why you are dedicated to the team in the first place.
 
Injuries will happen. Countless rolls of tape will be used on your ankles, and you will walk around for weeks in a boot. Oh, and ice baths, you will be taking one almost every day for four years, learn to love them. Even when you can barely walk up the stairs in the JSC, be thankful that you are able to walk and play and be sore. 
 
The biggest obstacle of them all will happen to you the summer before your senior year, making it drastically the most difficult year of them all. It will be hard, but you will not give up. You are not in it alone. While there will be days when you cannot imagine running or playing soccer again, remember everything that the team has given you. This team has brought you lifelong friends, endless laughs, and lessons that have shaped you to become the woman God created you to be. Knee surgery doesn't hold you back from being a good teammate, leader or encourager.
 
If I could give you one single piece of advice, it would be never to lose sight of your faith. In all the times of struggle and doubt, go to God first. He satisfies every need and is always there to listen and comfort.
 
Now, it's time to start your four-year journey. There will be ups and downs, but don't take any moment for granted. Make new friends. Stay up late. Have fun. Be confident. But most of all, rely on God, and He will use every bad situation for His good.
 
Love,
Senior Year Co