WHEN I THINK back on the girl that wandered into Tuttle with her arms full of belongings nearly four years ago, I cannot help but feel a mix of protectiveness, pride and thankfulness.
Protectiveness because that girl had no idea what she would encounter over her next four years at this school -- how much she would grow. Relationships would be tried and tested and lessons would be learned -- sometimes the hard way. All of the challenges, academic and emotional, have played a role in shaping me into who I am today.
That is why I also feel a mix of pride. This university has given all of us so many gifts. For me, the biggest thing I have gained -- something that The Cavalier Daily has been given me -- is confidence. Cold calling sources to "get the story," interacting with adults as if I was one, juggling internships, school work and part-time jobs with my commitment to The Cavalier Daily all equipped me to face a new set of challenges.
That same confidence I will take with me today as I leave the comfort of this campus and I step out into the real world. Once again, I'll be wandering into unfamiliar territory -- into a minuscule apartment in New York City rather than a dorm. However, this time along with my belongings, I will carry with me all of the amazing experiences I have had here at the University.
That is why when I think back to my first day the University, more than anything else, I am so thankful.
I am thankful to all of the amazing folks at The Cavalier Daily, my editors, Riley, Natasha, Kara and Chris who gave new meaning to hard work. I am thankful to Carol Wood for being my mentor and for, undoubtedly, reading this right now.
I am thankful for my friends, Natasha, Elizabeth, and Elena. You girls are like sisters to me and will be what I miss most about the University. I expect a lot of east coast traveling next year. And to Jon, Evan and Mark -- who knew boys could be so much fun?
To Whitney, thank you for your constant optimism and dedication to our friendship. You made every night a slumber party.
To Sami, thank you for sweeping me off my feet right after I wandered into Tuttle. You have been my rock through so much and while I know we have so many adventures ahead of us, I am sad to see our chapter at the University end.
And lastly, I am thankful for the support of my family. Grandma, thank you for your wisdom and friendship. You are an inspiration.
To Noah, I know you are going to do amazing things and I am so excited about being there with you for it all.
To Mom and Dad, thank you for giving me all the support I needed while being strong enough to make me do some of it on my own. Thank you for my summer in New York City and for my education at this school.
And thank you, U.Va., for classes in the amphitheater, beautiful weekends on the Corner, late night walks across the Lawn and a place I can come back to and try to re-experience it all.
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