I transferred here my sophomore year, knowing no one. Slowly, I started to meet people like my team and the people in my classes, but it was a struggle to find my place.
Going into college, I knew I wanted to major in communication. I loved writing and wrote all throughout high school, writing for the school newspaper and doing an internship with the communications department at the board of education for my county. Despite having some things figured out, I still felt lost.
I am originally from Maryland and coming to Indiana was an adjustment. I was used to the cold, but not the wind. It is dreary, grey, and it feels like we will go weeks without seeing the sun. It is flat, the roads are terrible and the cars all look like they are being held together by duct-tape. Somehow, it is still one of my favorite places where I made some of my favorite memories.
When I came to UIndy, I never would have expected to be given the opportunities I was given. I came in planning to get my communication degree, play lacrosse and that was it. When I was encouraged to join The Reflector, I was worried. I already had a busy schedule and prioritized lacrosse.
Now, I cannot imagine my life without it. I made lifelong friends, gained experience and learned lessons. My two years on The Reflector were not easy and they challenged me in multiple ways. From 12-hour long productions to technical problems online or mess ups at the printer, I would not trade it for the world. These tough moments made me grow as a writer and a person and they bonded us as a staff.
They say the people make the place, and that could not be more true. It was the previous editors and professors that mentored me that allowed me to become someone who is confident in my position. The Reflector gave me the necessary tools for my career and prepared me like no other class could have.
I am going to take what I have learned at UIndy from my various professors and peers and apply it to my future career. I am excited for what might be in store but I am going to miss all of the people and connections I have made during my time here.
