I can’t believe that it is already my turn to write my editorial for the senior issue for Spectrum. As cliché as it sounds, it feels like I was reading the senior issues of peers that graduated one to two years ago just yesterday.
Now, somehow, I’m here trying to put into words what have truly been the best four years of my life. How can I possibly sum that up into one article? It seems impossible, but I can only try my best.
Throughout my years at Sacred Heart, I have achieved things I never thought I would. I choreographed four dance pieces for the dance company, became an editor for the Spectrum, served as vice president on the executive board of the dance program and served as personnel chair on the executive board of my sorority, Chi Omega.
My freshman year, I was actually an exercise science major (I know, the complete opposite of what I am now). I remember sitting in my biology class, knowing that it wasn’t the right place for me. It was definitely a difficult feeling to face because then I had to do some research on what major I was interested in pursuing.
After many meetings with Sacred Heart staff, I found media arts and strategic communications. I made the switch, and it was the best decision I have ever made. For the first time, I felt genuinely excited about what I was learning. I don’t think I would have accomplished the things I did had I stayed in a different major.
If you told my freshman year self that I would become an editor for the school newspaper, I honestly don’t think I would have been surprised. Writing has always been a part of who I am. With a dad who was an English major and a mom who is a librarian, I grew up surrounded by a love for writing and reading. One of my favorite things has been sending my articles home for my parents to read.
During my junior year, I wrote my first editorial for Spectrum. Before starting this one, I went back and read it again. One line stood out to me: “I hope that in a couple years, once I’ve graduated and feel that my life is coming together, that I read this editorial with a smile on my face. I know I’ll remember this feeling and feel proud of the place that I will be in.” I can say now that I do. I feel proud of where I am today.
My time in the dance program has been the most meaningful part of my college experience. It’s where I formed friendships that will last a lifetime and discovered my style as both a dancer and choreographer. I attended the pre-fall dance intensive before school started freshman year where I met Emma, Sydney, Morgan and Hannah, who are now not only my roommates, but my best friends. I truly cannot imagine my college experience without them.
My final dance shows were some of the hardest and most beautiful moments I’ve experienced. Being on stage that last weekend felt surreal, it was so hard to say goodbye to something I love so much. I was completely present doing what I love with my best friends. And when I wasn’t performing, I was watching my friends bring my choreography to life. Seeing their smiles and their tears filled me with gratitude and I will always remember that moment.
Joining Chi Omega is another decision I will always be thankful for. Recruitment was both exciting and nerve-wracking, but I found a home filled with some of the sweetest, purest and kindest people you will ever meet. There’s something special about the way Chi Omega makes you feel. I always say that after having a conversation with a Chi O or even just going to an event, I always feel instantly better.
Now it’s my turn to graduate after watching three classes before me do the same. It’s true, time really does fly when you’re having fun. I feel so grateful that I embraced every moment and didn’t take my college experience for granted.
The people truly do make the place. Sacred Heart has shaped me in more ways than I ever could have imagined. The day before I left for college, someone told me these would be the best four years of my life. At the time, I didn’t fully believe them. How could four years be that good?
Now I know. They were so right. And I will carry these memories, these friendships and this growth with me for the rest of my life.
