I’ve tried to avoid opening the email reminding me to write my senior column for a few days now. The reality of a looming graduation is all too real, often bringing a tear or two to my eye whenever the topic comes up.
Judging by the crowds of people at the Farmington Road bars on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and sometimes Sunday, seniors are in agreement on how best to handle our imminent fate. But as the saying goes, “It’s not a considered a problem as long as you’re still in college.” And well, we have a few weeks left to hold onto that truth.
No matter how bitter I am this is all coming to an end, I am fortunate to have had such memorable years at Bradley.
I found my place at Bradley in a roundabout way. I went on probably ten campus visits everywhere from the Art Institute to ISU to DePaul, and for some reason, Bradley stood out above the rest as the right choice. It turns out; Bradley is the only school I technically applied to. My transcripts were never sent to my other two choices. Luckily, I was admitted!
I came into my freshman year only knowing a handful of people, and honestly, this was a good thing. It pushed me to find my way without the comfort of familiar friends.
From asking a girl I met just a few days before if she would be my roommate. (Fast forward to senior year, and we are roommates again; I guess you could say things worked out.)
To joining a different sorority than all my first Bradley friends were. The countless experiences helped grow my freshman self to a proud senior after holding leadership roles in Chi Omega, to working at The Scout for two years, joining campus clubs, to taking on multiple internships during the school year and the summer.
Four years at Bradley have given me irreplaceable friendships that will continue beyond graduation. An education taught by inspiring professors that will eventually lead me to my dream career. And transformative memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you to everyone who has played a part in this.
I’ll leave you with a favorite toast of mine, “Here’s to a long life and a merry one. A quick death and an easy one. A hot guy and an honest one. A cold beer and another one.”
Cheers, Class of 2016!
