Dear Younger Self: Toni Balzert

NOTE: Ahead of graduation, we asked three seniors to reflect on their time at the University of Colorado.  The first Buff featured is Antonia Balzert from tennis.  From Germany, Balzert reflects on her time at CU, in her own words, going through a pandemic, heart break and the ups and downs of college tennis, only to come out stronger and tougher as a result.  Toni’s letter is below, and be sure to watch the video, as well. 

Dear younger self, 

As I write this, I want you to know that you are brave and strong, and that your journey is just beginning. You are about to jump on an adventure that will shape you in ways you cannot yet imagine. Going to America to play college tennis and study in the University of Colorado Boulder will be an experience you will never forget. 

I know that you can feel the excitement of experiencing something new, but I also know that you are scared. And that is okay. You are pretty much leaving behind everything that is familiar and comfortable to you, and stepping out of your comfort zone into the unknown. This step will prepare you for everything life throws at you. Remember, you are capable of handling anything that comes your way. You are a fighter, you can do this. 

While you are at Colorado, you will face many challenges. You will experience lots of different characters, characters who suit yours and some might not so much. You will get to know the people who care about you and the people who don’t. You will experience your first heartbreak, and I know that it will feel like the world is ending. But let me tell you, it is not. You will learn and grow so much from this experience and you will come out stronger and tougher. You in fact will be okay. You have the strength and resilience to push through any difficult times, if it’s in your tennis game or in your life in general. 

You will also face a pandemic during your time in Colorado, and it will end up making you feel lonely. But know, you will also get through this time and you will learn being on your own, you will learn to be okay to just be with yourself and make the best out of times of uncertainties, and all this is so important to learn, especially in your early 20s. 

I also want you to remember that you are never alone. You will meet so many people who truly care about you as a person and who love and support…