Take Two...

This time last year, I was all packed up and ready to go back home. It had been a long year of adjustment and change and to be honest, I still wasn't sure this whole college thing was for me. I mean things got better as the year went on, but something was missing and keeping me from calling Santa Clara my home.  A summer of reflection gave me the time to take in everything I had experienced and take on a perspective that made all the difference.

I didn't know what the missing piece looked like, but I was determined to find it...

Turns out the missing piece consisted of multiple parts...

I found the first piece in Suite 305. It was the piece that blessed me with company and laughter. Or as I liked to call them, my beautiful butterflies.

I found another piece on Search. It was the piece reminding me of the importance of the people I surround myself with.

Right after, I found a piece in CLC. It was the piece that took over my life this year, but helped me grow in ways that overwhelm me with gratitude and introduced me to amazing people. I mean have you met Fr. Manh?!!

I found a piece in Benson, where I finally shared meals and conversations with great friends.

A piece in Campisi, where I attempted to do homework, but never succeeded because of all the socializing and fun times.

A piece in the library where random encounters with friends brightened up my day.

And how can I forget the piece I found in Campus Ministry...my home away from home away from home!

Each of these pieces have one thing in common...PEOPLE! FRIENDS!!!

That sense of belonging.

It is these people, these friends that have helped me grow in ways I never imagined, to believe in myself, to be able to call Santa Clara my home away from home. It is also these people who have made me postpone packing as long as possible. It seems that right when things were becoming great, things have to pause for bit (a little longer for those studying abroad and for my graduating seniors). But I couldn't be happier with how this year has turned out. I truly am blessed and I am beyond excited to see what these next two years will bring.

Thank you friends for the love and friendship you have shared with me this year. For being part of that missing piece. May you all have a fantastic summer!!!

So MUCH love <3