It’s a bittersweet feeling. I have been able to engage in some reflection on the three years I’ve spent at John Carroll, working to express gratitude for all of my experiences, knowing my time here ends in May.

There have been moments of self-development, new relationships and exciting roles that have allowed me to discover my passions. But amongst my busy schedule, I’m trying to remember that there is no better time to continue to grow than the present.

The onset of my senior year brought thoughts of fear and uncertainty, knowing that I have to face corporate America without firm thoughts about what path to pursue. But what I have understood now, is that worrying will not change reality. I am moving forward in life, embracing the chapter that is on its way, but also, making a distinct effort to live in the moment.

This is an adjustment. This is especially different for someone who functions at the highest rate of speed possible, but I truly have made a conscious choice to breathe in steadily and exhale both calmly and peacefully.

More specifically, I have cherished the moments of mindless conversation with my roommates, running through events from the past weekend, our stomachs aching with the delightful sensation of pain from laughter. I’ve set up lawn chairs in my front yard to get through some school work in the warmth of the sun, embracing the piercing commotion on Warrensville Center Road, smiling at the irony of how far from peaceful it is. But, these moments will soon become memories, something that I will never live through again after I transition into the remainder of my adult life.

I don’t know where I will end up in one year’s time, but whether I travel home to my roots in Buffalo or set new foundations in Cleveland, I know that I will do so with an open heart and fresh perspective on life.

Life has a unique way of bringing about new people in each crease of life. I’ve changed, I’ve reformed, I’ve failed, I’ve succeeded, I’ve grown and I’ve lost. But, with every moment of life, I understand that each chapter is a part of the growing process. So, there’s no point in wishing for the future when you create your prospective self in the present. Your experiences and relationships form how you will function and live in the future.

So, overall, my senior year is something that signals a new chapter, but I know that the remainder of this year is still an opportunity for me to create the best version of myself.