I'm a sucker for nostalgia, but I also believe that the new year is a good time for self-reflection. Here is my 2016 in Review:

I began working at the best jobs in the world.

This summer, I began my job at Brookfield Zoo. In the fall, I began my job as an Orientation Mentor. Both of these jobs allowed me to work with those younger than myself. My role was not only to teach them but, also foster relationships. At the zoo, I had the opportunity to work with students from all levels of ability. In all honesty, I believe I learned more from kids I worked with than they learned from me. As an Orientation Mentor at Carroll, I developed a further appreciation for my school. My co-workers became my family. I learned how to work with people at their best and worst. My students taught me how to be a better version of myself. These jobs have truly impacted my life, and I look forward to working in these two positions in 2017.

I missed my best friends.

This semester, three of my friends studied abroad in China. We still talked and Snapchatted and laughed at inside jokes, but I missed them so much more than I originally thought I would. Our relationship became stronger as I realized how much I missed them. I look forward to a time when I get to see them again.

I watched history be made.

On November 2, 2016, I watched the Chicago Cubs win the World Series. I held the phone next to my ear and talked to my dad, both of us were beaming and teary-eyed. The Cubs' winning was more than just a victory for the team; it was a victory for an entire community. Generations of fans watched and cheered together as one lesson was won; the underdogs can prevail beyond all expectations.

I wept for a lost loved one.

When my grandma died in October, the grieving process was longer than I had imagine. On the day of her death, I was separated from my family in their time of need. In the days that passed, I thought I could simply shrug the grief off. This process drew me closer to my family and made realize how important it was to express gratitude to them for all they do in my life.

I waited in anticipation for 2017.

With the year coming to a close, I waiting in anticipation for my journey to begin. I soon will be on a plane to Vienna. But in preparation for my trip, I found myself overwhelmed with paper work and packing. There was so much more to do than I had ever realized. This process caused a lot of stress for both myself and my family, but I would complete the process two times over if it meant I could fly to Vienna. With so much anticipation building, I am practicing bursting with excitement.

So in 2017, I hope to apply all the lessons I have learned in the past year. I truly cherish everyone who has been in my life and helped me through in times of sadness and joy. I look forward to a year of new possibilities as I hope you all are as well.