There are several things in life that I have had the pleasure to be a part of: scholar's bowl, FIRST Robotics, and even my high school's marching band. And while all of these activities and organizations hold a special place in my heart, so does Step Sing.

For those of you who do not know what Step Sing is, it is a fundraiser that the Univeristy of North Alabama does to raise money for United Way. Organizations from all over campus are welcome to participate in this show. While the show is fun, it also requires so much work behind the scenes. There are several late night practices, grueling dances moves, and several attempts to get the vocals just right.

It is not easy, but if it was, it would not be worth it. January is always marked by the lost hours of sleep, the homework done mere minutes before it is due, and the groggy mornings where our beds are the most comfortable of places to be.We both dread and look forward to it at the same time. For me, it was finding the balance between working full time and attending school full time. I almost had to sacrifice my last chance at doing Step Sing purely because I thought that it would be impossible to do.

Luckily, I found a way. I found a way to attend all practices and give it my best.

That is not to say that it was easy, because it is not.

But, these past four years that I have done Step Sing, I would not trade any of it. As a woman who is both large and non vocally talented, it seems a bit of a stretch to even consider doing it. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone. And while I made not have made lasting relationships with anyone (mostly due to my own nature of sticking to myself), I was able to meet people that I never would have. I was able to do things I never thought I would.

Most of all, I am very thankful for the opportunity to actually perform on a stage for an audience while helping out the community, because it makes the experience that much richer.

I hate that this is my last year participating in this wonderful event, but somethings, unfortunately, have to come to an end. It is not easy to say goodbye to the things that you love, and it never will be.

But, I have memories of shows that will last. I performed in a 1940's themed show with one of our members dressed as Captain America. I was able to rock fishnet stockings while wearing shorts and booties pretending to be a zombie. I got to sing along to Taylor Swift and wear plaid. This year I got to play a sassy millennial. I was able to get over my stage fright in the best way possible by literally going on stage.

For that, I owe Step Sing so much.