As the school year comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on what I have learned. This year was definitely my most difficult year of college--both academically and personally. There are many reasons for this, but there is no need for me get into the gritty details. With that said, this year was also one of the most rewarding years of my life. I was able to grow as a leader, I made some incredible new friends and strengthened old friendships, and learned lots of new things inside and outside of the classroom. So, as the year closes, I advocate for everyone to look at the relationships they’ve built throughout this year and at the progress they’ve made towards a goal.

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An important thing I learned this year is how to say “no.” I’ve always been someone who takes on too much or who will help people out because I feel obligated, rather than actually wanting to. I’ve had to say no to things in both my professional life and my personal life. I made the decision to resign as Greener Behrend president in the fall in order to focus more on the Beacon and also to give someone else the chance to give Greener Behrend the attention it deserves. This also goes for delegating rather than doing everything myself. I’ve always had trouble letting go of the reins, but this year I was able to do that more. I encourage you to learn your limits and save time for yourself.

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I’ve also learned more about my mental health and have tried to become more conscious about the mental health of others. I know there have been times this year when I have said or done something and hurt someone else and I didn’t realize it. Some of the times I was confronted later about it, and I feel terrible for not realizing and being more conscious of the impact I have on others. Many of my close friends have dealt with things that I will never be able to fully understand, but I can be there for them. I have also tried to voice when I am feeling hurt or tried to not take things personally because people often do not know what they do. I encourage you to make time to focus on yourself, but also try to be kinder and more understanding of others.

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This year also taught me about loss. I have had multiple pets die in the past, but over Thanksgiving break my beloved dog, Cody, passed away. I had him for 11 years and I am still very upset over his death. I find comfort in knowing that I spent a lot of time with him throughout his life, and especially so during the last year or two. We made many great memories, whether that was kayaking with Cody sitting on my lap or cuddling, and I will always treasure the time I had with him. I encourage you to appreciate the people and animals you have in your life now because they will not be with you forever.

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I am so lucky to have such wonderful friends. This year was really the year of building a supportive network of friends. Our group in the Beacon is very strong and we all love and support each other. The group of people within my major, both students and professors, also have formed very strong bonds with each other. These groups of people have shown me such pure and overflowing love. Romantic love is important, but this year I was able to focus on love between friends and love between students and their teachers. I encourage you to reach out to people and try to build relationships with them.

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Lastly, I have become increasingly aware of just how much I do not know. In my classes, when talking with others, and when reading things on my own I have recognized more that I know barely anything compared to the wealth of knowledge out there. I don’t even know all the things I do not know. But that’s okay, and I am trying to accept that I can only do my best and that it’s okay to not know everything. I encourage you to find a lesson in everything, but also to be comfortable with the unknown.

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Overall, my college experience has been one steep learning curve. That includes academics, general life skills and other knowledge. I have one year left at Behrend and I plan on using it to better myself, the people around me, and the world. I encourage you to do the same.