I am closer to graduation than I ever thought I would be. For years, it felt distant—something to think about “eventually.” Now, it is here.
When I first arrived at Seton Hall, I thought I had a clear sense of who I was. In reality, I had only begun to figure it out.
College has a way of forcing that process. It pushes you into unfamiliar spaces, introduces you to new faces and perspectives, and, at times, leaves you uncomfortable. It is in those difficult moments where the most growth happens.
Like many students, I spent time worrying about what others thought of me. I hesitated before speaking up in class, second-guessed decisions and stayed within the boundaries of what felt safe. I felt this pressure going into college that I needed to have it all figured out.
The truth is, no one does.
One of the most important lessons I learned at SHU is that people are far less focused on you than you think. Everyone is navigating their own challenges, insecurities and goals. The fear of being judged can feel overwhelming, but more often than not it is self-imposed.
Once I began to step outside of my comfort zone, everything changed.
Joining The Setonian was one of those steps. What started as a way to get involved and improve my writing skills quickly became one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience. As a writer and later as a member of the editorial board, I was challenged to think critically, meet deadlines and take responsibility for work that represented more than just myself.
There were moments of doubt. Writing does not always come easily, and leadership comes with its own set of pressures. There were times I questioned whether I was capable or qualified to write controversial pieces. But those moments were necessary. They forced me to grow, to adapt and to trust my abilities.
The Setonian taught me more than how to write or edit. It taught me how to use my voice, how to listen to others and how to be part of something larger than myself.
Not only did this newspaper come with lessons, but it also came with a strong support group. Everyone involved is uplifting and doesn’t make you feel afraid to have your voice or ideas heard.
Looking back, the moments I grew the most were not the ones where everything went smoothly. They were the moments when I made mistakes, felt uncomfortable or took a risk without knowing the outcome.
College is not about having all the answers. It is about being willing to ask questions, try new things and accept that failure is part of the process.
If there is one thing I would tell underclassmen, it is this: Do not let fear hold you back. Speak up. Try something new. Take the opportunity, even if you are not sure you are ready.
Because that is what SHU—and college as a whole—is meant to teach you.
Not just how to succeed, but how to grow into who you are.
Morgan Dence was the Fall 2025 assistant editor of The Setonian’s Social Media. She can be reached at morgan.dence@student.shu.edu.
