Dear 2015-2016 school year,
As our time together comes to an end, there are a few things that I would like to thank you for.
Thank you for the confidence boost.
When I came back in the summer for OWL (Orientation Weekend Leader) training, I never would have expected this year to turn out the way it did. I had a shit ton of insecurities and no confidence whatsoever. I'm not going to say OWL training changed me, because it was the year as a whole, but training definitely helped. I met and hung out with new people that I wouldn't have if I wasn't an OWL. After the whole week of training and moving the new students in, I walked around with a new confidence. I said "hi" to people walking to class, whereas the past years I kept to myself and didn't talk to anyone. I've started to realize that college is what you make of it. If you just walk around and don't smile or communicate with anyone, you're going to miserable.
Thank you for my new friends.
After training, I had made so many new friends. I wasn't used to that at all. I had my set group of six girls. I didn't need anymore; or so I thought. I love my SQUAD, I really do, but there is nothing wrong with branching out. I wish I would have realized this sooner. There are so many people on my campus with different pasts and stories that I never even gave a chance. I became friends with the "pent" house upstairs. I would say "I'm just going upstairs for a couple minutes" and be there for hours. Those girls are some of the best people I have ever met and if I would have never branched out, I might not even know them. So here's just a quick shout out to the "pent" house. Thanks for everything!
Thank you for my old friends.
I know I just said it was good to branch out, but as this year has gone on, my friends and I have gotten closer than we ever have been. I think we've just realized stupid drama isn't even worth it anymore. I know I can be completely honest with them and they can with me. Next fall will be the last semester with three of my friends (they'll be on fieldwork). We've realized the amount of time left we have together is limited. Sooner than most group of friends, we'll all be going our separate ways. We've realized how precious this time together is and it has definitely shown.
Thank you for all of my new memories.
Ever since I started branching out, I've been given so many amazing opportunities. I am now the president of the Campus Lions Club, music chairperson for the Campus Activities Board and a building representative for Residence Hall Association.
I went out for my first Thirsty Thursday as well this year.I know it sounds like something so small, but before, I never would have put myself in a situation like that. I never thought I would be a bar person but now I don't mind going to them. I woke up at 6:30 in the morning to go to a bar on St.Patrick's Day for a free t-shirt. Never in a million years would I have thought about doing that. Along with all of these, there are so many small moments that I'll keep with me forever.
So here's to you 2015-2016 school year. You have been nothing but good me and I'll forever be grateful!
Love always,
Me.
