I imagine that all first year college students, regardless of age, go through some sort of hectic transitional period where college guides your new view on life.

For most traditional, fresh out of high school students this transition is referred to by most as becoming an adult. The key word here is becoming.

During my first semester at Park, I had an interesting experience with a professor who was the instructor for one of my favorite classes. I was passionate about this class, I gave it all I had and I got the grade I deserved. I happily enrolled into the second level of that course work.

After I enrolled, that instructor advised me that even though I was just as capable as all the upperclassmen, I may have lacked the maturity needed to succeed. In literal years, the instructor was right. I was still a freshman while students in that course were traditionally juniors and seniors.

I automatically thought to myself: What is this person talking about? I am an 18-year-old college student. I am an adult.

I felt that way for a while but I eventually let it go. However, after some time of reflection I understand what this professor meant. I have realized – throughout the last several months – that as my personal life experiences evolve, my ability to soak in and understand knowledge increases as well.

Scientists understand that the human brain matures much later than we originally thought. The prefrontal region of our brain – which is important for planning ahead, controlling impulses and comparing risk and reward – isn’t fully matured until our mid to late 20s.

This obviously isn’t reflected in all facets of society otherwise we wouldn’t have ended up with teenagers driving before they can watch an R-rated movie.

We are forever becoming adults. Whether you are 18 or 40, we are always building our understanding of life. Today, I can honestly say I am 19 years old and I don’t have my life all together and that’s okay. If you are 21 and you don’t have your life together, that’s okay.

If you are 40, 50, 60, and you don’t feel that you have your life together that’s okay – just keep working at it. We must understand that we are constantly working on becoming adults, growing as people and expanding our understanding of life.

Life is a constant learning process as we are ever maturing.