When you know your college career is coming to a close.

I just submitted my candidacy for May 2010 graduation. And it’s forcing me to reflect back on arguably the best 3 years of my life (so far).

College is scary. As a freshman coming to the University of Dayton far from home, I was terrified of all the unknown factors I was going to face. But the UD community made me feel at home right away. I’ve never looked back and never regretted my decision to leave home. UD is my home now.

I’ve been back on campus for about three weeks, and never before have I appreciated what a unique place UD is. I think it’s my imminent graduation that’s putting things into perspective for me, but I find it truly hard to put into words what it is really like to live on campus.

It was a long journey to get me to where I am today. And I know I would be a completely different person if it weren’t for the UD community.

They say college is about learning, and not all that learning takes place in a classroom. In fact, most of the things I will take away from here when I leave in May were taught to me by fellow students.

It’s hard to describe how college teaches you to be yourself. But that is essentially what happens. You test your own limits, learn how to harness your independence and find your calling in life.

I’ve been joking with my friends that I want to switch lives with the freshmen who are just beginning this journey. I’ve had the time of my life and I am reluctant for it to end. I know I am ready for the next stage in my life. And the University of Dayton is a big reason for that.

Beginning my senior year, you’ll still be hearing from me regarding life on campus, as I settle into my house and into the routine of classes and meetings. Senior year, porch life and living in the student neighborhoods are all huge parts of life on the UD campus, all indicators of what a special place UD is.

You never get a feel for a campus until you actually set foot on its grounds for yourself. So visit lots of schools, choose wisely, and once you’re there, live it up.

Go Flyers!