The holiday season is upon us once again. For me this usually means planning gatherings with family and friends and a few relaxing weeks away from the hustle and bustle of college life. But this holiday season is going to be a little bit different. Graduation bells are ringing and instead of spending countless hours studying for final exams I will be soulfully reflecting on my college career and all of the wonderful and inspiring people I have met.

Over the past 4 years I have truly felt at home here among the St. Thomas community and within Tom’s Leadership Council. I have met some of my closest friends through this church community and learned many invaluable lessons about myself and about life in general. Through student retreats and personal reflection I have learned what it means to take ownership of my strong faith and how to take pride in what I believe in. Sister Alberta has shown me how to be a leader and how to deal with situations with poise and grace. While spending a week in Washington D.C. with Sister Alberta and fellow students I saw the world through the eyes of the homeless and sick. I can honestly say that I truly appreciate all of the love and happiness I have in my life and I pray that others may feel the same way.

Socially, my friends have taught me how important it is to support others in their time of need and to accept their help in return when I am in need. It is not always easy to admit you can’t do everything at once and this is where friends are there to help!

Along with all of these valuable life lessons my friends have taught me how to kick back and truly enjoy my college experience. Almost every weekend we have