When I was 18, I’d never spoken to a group of more than a dozen people. But when I read passages in class, I was told I had a “radio voice.” When I came to The University of Alabama, I applied to work at the student radio station on a whim. I didn’t think it would go anywhere.

Now, three years later, I’ve been interviewed by Anderson Cooper, I’ve spoken on a panel about racism with state senators and I was in a live debate with a lobbyist about Alabama’s public education (I lost – lobbyists are good at arguing). Public speaking is now one of my favorite things to do and one of the skills I’m most proud of.

Three years ago, I had a problem with rudeness. I was viewed with hostility by a huge number of my peers, because I didn’t know how to make a point with tact. I knew that about myself, and when I came to The University of Alabama, I made a conscious choice to improve. I haven’t eliminated my combative tendencies, but I’ve brought them under greater control.

The point is that college is an opportunity to cultivate yourself. In high school, you had an identity that was formed over years of familiarity with your peers. Everyone knew not only who you were, but what you were. You had a reputation. People expected things ?from you, and didn’t ?expect others.

Now, you’re with 30,000 strangers. You’re surrounded by facilities that cater to any interest imaginable. Think about the person you want to be at the end of college. This is your opportunity to grow that part of you, it’s part of why you’re here. In my opinion, it’s one of the best things about college.

Nathan James is a senior majoring in psychology. His columns runs weekly on Thursday.