I wouldn’t be a commendable writer if I neglected to submit a final editorial before closing this significant chapter of my life. A huge part of it concluded earlier this month on graduation day. I received my Regents of Bachelors Arts degree in Communications and Sociology. In addition to finally reaching this milestone, I am relocating in just a few short weeks. Athens has been my home since I took my first step at Concord’s Subway Sides so as everything comes to a close, there is a lot of reminiscing. I realize it’s more than friends, a first apartment, college, etc. that I’m saying goodbye to, but more so the first chapter of my life.

I learned the alphabet, shapes, colors and met my first two childhood friends Dyanne and Katherine Lile at Concord Childcare Center while mom was in class or working. I learned (sort of) how to parallel park in front of the flags and bell tower. I learned how to write a news story in Mrs. Morgan’s Intro to Journalism. I learned how to be a journalist in The Concordian Newspaper workshop and by freelancing for the Princeton Times.

I learned what my passions are and aren’t in Athens and at Concord. I was a work-study student in the library, counseling center, game room and English Department; each job taught me something new about myself and life. From being a sorority girl, Editor-in-Chief of The Concordian Newspaper, changing majors dozens of times, going through a terrible depression, withdrawing from school, getting my first apartment, buying my first and second car, falling in love, meeting my two very best friends, paying my first utility bill, having a news story make the fold of the community the past five years have been the most challenging and best of my life.

Still yet, when I look at the big picture, the most significant part of my life that stands out isn’t so much the memories and life lessons made, but rather the people who chose to be a part of my life even through the seasons changing. Life is about loving those who chose care when they don’t have to. Everyone comes into our life for a reason; to become a part of it or because a lesson needs to be learned. And as I close this chapter, I can’t help but think of the ones who give more meaning to my life and have been around every step of the way.

Over the past few weeks I've given several personal shout-outs to several people who impacted my collegiate career. It’s important that I recognize my Nana and several others who have changed me for the better.

To keep this short and simple, my Nana is the reason for every proactive choice I make. I hope she is proud of my mother, baby sisters, and I. Honestly, I could talk about Nana all day and not run out of praises, but sometimes short and sweet gets the point across more than vice versa. Along with Nana, my grandmother Trudy should be recognized. While she passed away before my mother was a year old, I think she is the reason I try to always chase my dreams because you never know what could happen.

I'd also like to recognize my mother, for not pushing me on a certain path, but encouraging me to create my own. She is absolutely amazing and I hope to become half the woman she hopes me to become. Also, my god-mother, Michele, for being the amazing person she is; best friends Jessie and Heather for the words of encouragement, endless support, and always knowing what to say. And Zack for being the best friend who reminds me life is too short for anything but a good time and to follow my dreams. Also Paul, for absolutely everything. I think I’ll miss you the most, man.

Finally, Dr. Staci Craft-- I’m not sure where I would be today without her guidance, love, and support. And honestly, I’m not sure that I want to know. She gave me hope when I didn’t believe it existed anymore, and I will never be able to thank her enough. If her goal is to make a difference in someone’s life, she has done much more than, and saved one as well.

I have learned more about life and myself over the past few years than I could attempt to learn in a classroom setting. There are so many people who have been with me every step of the way and I can’t thank them enough. It has been a long road with bumps and bridges, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. This story has been all over the map, but so have the past five years. Here’s to the best years of my life, and now, finally, the next chapter.