I Went Back Over the Rainbow.

I'm done. Finished. Complete.

I have never been more joyous to close a chapter of my life, and open a new one with this much enthusiasm. Ten days ago I wrapped up my freshmen year of college, easily the most difficult school year of my life. It was a trying one. I won't go into boring details, but I do want it to be clear that I don't regret my decision. My choice to attend college out of state, my decision to transfer, and any other paths I decided to take in between.

Even with this year being as hard as it was, I recognize my individual growth. I have learned so much not only about myself, but the people I want to associate myself with. This past month I've been really disappointed by the actions of people I really trusted. However, that merely has given light to those solid people in my life that are there for me time and time again. This year was one of "tough love," but I can look back and know that I wouldn't be near the person I am today, and the person I will be tomorrow, had it not been for that experience.

Yet everything feels almost dreamlike, like this year never happened. It's been an incredibly smooth transition coming back. The night I got home, I rolled into town and was immediately greeted by friends. Some people I had known since junior high school. Needless to say, I felt right at home.

But it didn't end there. For the past week I've been hanging out at Malloy Hall, and when I'm not there I'm hanging with people that are in the music department. These people are awesome. I feel like I'm in this huge, beautiful family, that includes students and teachers. For the first time in a really, really long time I feel like I belong. I can't express how grateful I am for the amazing teachers I will have in the fall. They have offered me nothing but support and generosity. So glad to be here.