DECEMBER 12, 2025 | FEATURES | By Anonymous
Disclaimer: I am not a sex addict. I am writing this column for the benefit of others because this idea was meant to be shared with the world (Colorado College).
When one of the Co Editors-in-Chief of the Catalyst reached out to me and said, “We want you to write this week,” I heavily debated writing this article. I felt as though it was not my place to write because so much has changed for me since last year, when I started this column.
It’s also why I haven’t written at all this semester. My relationship with myself has changed, my relationship with sex has changed and my relationship with drugs and alcohol has changed. And while I didn’t think I needed to change last year, it is so obvious to me now that I did.
Change is super scary: in fact, it can be especially difficult if you don’t admit to yourself that you might need to change. But for me personally, nothing has ever felt so rewarding. So, let’s talk about change!
For many freshmen, the first year of college is a time to explore newfound independence. No parents are telling you what you can and cannot do, no curfews and no “rules.” That, combined with a campus full of strangers who are new and attractive, may shape your relationship with sex. For better or for worse, I’ll let you decide.
When I came to college, I was reckless. I prioritized boys and alcohol over everything else, even my own safety. I didn’t realize how my family dynamics had such an impact on my actions before college.
I searched for validation from men through sex when I should have been validating myself. That has changed dramatically since I transitioned into a new year at CC.
Coming back after the summer, you already know a lot of the people on campus. For example, instead of being excited that a cute boy is in your class, you might recognize him from constantly trying to hook up with your roommate (just an example!).
And as you move through college, you’ll only gain more familiarity with your surroundings and the people at CC. You may grow more into yourself and into a stable friend group.
For me, this new stability that wasn’t available freshman year has been extremely positive. I prioritize spending time with my friends at parties instead of finding someone to have sex with, like I did freshman year. Dancing, talking and occasionally doing drugs (I am totally joking) with friends is validating in itself.
So, whether you are a freshman or a senior, you may have noticed things that have changed since coming to college. Maybe you changed your appearance, picked up some cool hobbies, tried drugs (again, I’m totally joking) or even hooked up with someone of the same sex. For me, it’s all of the above.
Freshman year, whether it is or was the best year of your life or the worst, is a period of growth. You are on your own for the first time! Give yourself some time to adjust and give yourself some grace.
Change can be an amazing thing. It can help you grow as a person and make you feel more confident in yourself. Change, as I’ve experienced it, has been so influential. But if there’s one thing that might never change for me, it’s my freshman year crush.
Please remember to always practice safe sex between you and your partner!
If you or anyone you know is suffering from sexual violence or harassment, please follow these resources.
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
Campus Safety Emergency: (719) 389-6911