Six weeks of spring term have come and gone.
Shasta weekend has finally passed and the high point of this term's festivities has peaked. As the months dwindle away and graduation sits on the horizon, it seems that the pace of the term has quickly picked up and we're closing in on the finish line.
Throughout the myriad of passing moments this weekend, I found myself reflecting on all of the many moments and mini memories that I've experienced over the years.
A mix of mistakes and growing up took me on a five-year journey, one that has taken longer than planned, but to regret that would be to regret all that those years have given me.
Freshman year took me on a whirlwind of new sisters, fraternity boys, too many forgotten nights, and a crash course in time management.
Sophomore year brought me indecision, unfortunate choices, a new love, my first shot at independence, and the crumbling of friendships.
Junior year brought me new perspectives, a second chance, the rebuilding of a relationship, and a new shot at success.
Senior year taught me about patience, sticking up for yourself, about experiencing new "things," how to get what you want, and how to love.
This final year, perhaps the most crucial and determining of them all, has given me a new dream, a new future, a rock to depend on, and happiness that I've thought was out of reach.
As the term descends from the height of its excitement and into the uncloudy future, I have become sentimental and nostalgic and am holding onto the last final days of youth.
Though I am excited for the future, and for all of the new responsibilities that I am to undertake, I feel anxious and nervous for what is to come. I believe in my triumphs so far and in all that I am capable of accomplishing. But I still find myself concerned about how I will succeed and how I will make it on my own.
But beyond the education that the institution has provided, I've learned things much more important than what can be reflected on paper - I've learned about life and how to live - and that is nothing to regret.