The other night I had to walk to CVS. I haven’t had to make the walk since I was a freshman three years ago, but I didn’t mind because it was a nice night. The sun was just starting to set and there was one of those sunsets in the sky that you never want to end. Nights like this have a way of making you feel nostalgic. Naturally, as I walked on the quiet campus I got to thinking about how my fourth year at Stonehill is soon coming to an end and they have gone by in the blink of an eye. As sad as I am to think of it coming to an end I have so much to thank Stonehill for.

Thank you for accepting me and letting me become part of your community; a community where I have learned so much and have been challenged to grow in ways that I never thought would be possible for me. Thank you for being a community that has such love and support for one another. I could always count on seeing a smiling face every day and that’s something that I’ll miss. I will always be a Skyhawk at heart.

Thank you for bringing me new perspectives on life with H.O.P.E service immersion, Into the Streets, and other programs like study abroad. Although I didn't have the opportunity go abroad, I was able to see how it changed the lives of many of my friends and classmates. With these opportunities, I was able to experience life outside the Stonehill bubble. With these experiences, I met people who have altered my perspective on life for the better.

Thank you for giving me the skills that will help me become successful later in life. With the education I have gotten at Stonehill, I feel life I am ready to conquer the world. With the many outlets that we were given through career services, I feel ready to take on the professional world. It might seem scary, but with all the skills I have been given, thanks to Stonehill, I am more than ready for my future.

Thank you for letting me live on one of the most beautiful campuses I have encountered. From Donahue Hill to the iconic clock, these are the views I will miss so much. Even covered in snow, Stonehill still managed to be beautiful with glowing Christmas lights on the trees. I will always remember how beautiful the quad looked during sunset on a spring night.

Most importantly, I want to thank Stonehill for bringing amazing people into my life. I have met so many people that have changed me. Everyone I have encountered at Stonehill has made a permanent mark on my life. I will always remember the late nights we spent together and the times we had. Through both good and bad, the people I have met have been there for me and I don’t think my years here would have been the same without them. Thank you a thousand times for being the amazing people that you are.

When I moved in freshman year, I remember I sat in Panera with my sister and I cried because I couldn’t bear the thought of having to leave home. Now, I cry thinking about leaving Stonehill because Stonehill is home and it has been for the past four years of my life. Even though I won’t be here next year, Stonehill, you have a place in my heart forever.

Sincerely,

A Graduating Senior