We’re Huskies, it’s what we do

Well… didn’t the fall semester just fly by.

After all the unexpected twists and turns, this girl is still going strong. One more semester left and looking back, I can’t say I have many regrets if any! Being involved with friends and clubs while staying active is the key to success in my book! (Not forgetting about the hours of writing papers and studying ;)) Our favorite!

But truly, I’ve learned that work DOES pay off! Be that student who puts in the extra hour to tidy up her paper. Be that student who goes out of their way to assist a member in their club with a project. Be THAT student who goes above and beyond. Sort of like Buzz Lightyear… or is that to infinity and beyond? Actually, do that too!

Oh, the Places You Go says Dr. Seuss. Make the effort, put in the work, and you’ll see the results in the end.

Starting out merely as a member of NCASC (National Communication Association Student Club), I’ve worked my way up to PRESIDENT! Taking on various leadership roles such as treasurer and public relations chair, I was an active exec member throughout my college years. It wasn’t all pretty though.

You see, at first, I tried so hard to follow this shiny, marbly, off-white path to guide me to my success. But in reality, this path is dusty, rugged, and dirt brown.

But that’s okay. Every path is different and leads to different things!

In my freshman year, I started out as a health science major. I loved science and formulas but my sophomore year, I learned this wasn’t the path for me. It was during the Covid-19 pandemic when I took a class called Interpersonal Communications and I absolutely loved it. Through the Zoom screen, my professor opened my eyes to other majors offered. She started telling me more about communication studies, and I was sold.

Regardless of what others thought or expected of me, I loved this new major path. Why? It was for myself.

Later on, I picked up a marketing minor as I was interested in aspects of business. I wanted to be as successful and marketable as possible after college. Even though I never really enjoyed crunching numbers, I pushed myself to learn more every day.

Happiness comes from within. And THAT is what I ultimately learned this year.

Overall, college has brought friends into my life that will truly last a lifetime. I’ve learned as much from them as I have in my courses. Life is a process, and it’s to be taken one step at a time.

And with one semester left, I can confidently say that when I walk across the graduation stage, I’ll continue to go onward and upward. We’re Huskies, it’s what we do.

— Kathryn Henriksen, a senior communication studies major at Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg with an emphasis on organizational communication, is interning with the Office of Marketing and Communications this fall. She is a native of Pottstown who loves Andy Grammer, Nutella, and all 10 seasons of Friends.

#BloomOnward #HuskyLife

We did it together!

Coming into my last semester, I was beyond excited to finally live with my four best friends. I think to myself now, with little left of my time here at Bloomsburg, where did the time go?

It’s times like these I wish I had a time machine and could hit replay. All my roommates live at least two hours away from me, and I’m going from seeing them every second of my days to parting ways to go back home. It’s a bittersweet moment, sitting down and taking everything in.

This entire year brought me so much closer to my best friends, which I did not think was possible. It made me realize that yes it is sad, but finishing college with my girls is a beautiful accomplishment ... and now, we'll smile and say “We did it together!”

I feel so proud of myself for pushing through the hard times and continuing college after taking my semester off. Looking back, I wouldn't have developed and grown these bonds with these girls if it were not for coming back. I could never imagine a life where I did not pick up these last two years of memories, laughter, love, and tears. If you have the chance to live with your favorite people, don’t pass it up.

To any incoming freshman, I promise you're going to meet your best friends here. Living in Elwell my first year, I was terrified it was never going to happen for me ... but now I’m blessed that Bloomsburg brought me girls I'll talk to for the rest of my life, way past graduation.

— Sarah O'Leary, a senior communication studies major with an emphasis on interpersonal communication, is interning with the Office of Marketing and Communications this spring. She is a native of Scranton and is an avid Harry Styles fan.

#BloomOnward #HuskyLife

Always one FaceTime away

 

Dating is a key component of college life. And, it comes in many forms. There’s typical dating. There's a study date. And my favorite, a food date. 

This is where Kelly comes in. Kelly and I have always had a special bond, especially after we got to know each other more during our sophomore year. When I first met her, I could tell she had thick skin and was someone who would do anything for her closest girlfriends. 

Chick-fil-A has always been our go-to for food dates, and now we're roommates ... two years later, it still is. These are little moments I’ve cherished since the start. These times have only brought us closer together. Kelly has taught me how to be confident, set boundaries for myself, and taught me how to have thicker skin too.

Kelly comes from Staten Island, a borough of New York City. Her heavy New York accent has always been something I love. I have never visited Kelly, although New York is one of my favorite places to visit. This summer after graduation, we plan on making a trip together to celebrate before we part ways. 

Kelly’s room is right next to mine in our apartment, which is so comforting, because I know she’s always there for me whenever I need to talk to someone. There’s been late nights where we have stayed up together and had conversations that have lasted for hours on end when either of us were feeling down.

Kelly has always given me the best advice, and I know she has truly shaped me into the woman I am today. I can say when we first met, my self-confidence was not there. I was constantly juggling something new with my self-identity while going through one of the hardest times of my life. By no means has our senior year been perfect. We’ve all had our ups and downs, but I could honestly say I'm so proud of us for who we have become today. I would call Kelly my therapist friend, because it's been proven countless times her advice has brought me nothing but self-improvement and love.

Now in our final year together, we’ve taken our Chick-fil-A dates to sushi dates at Oliran and make it a habit to do sushi Sundays together whenever we can. Kelly and I grabbing lunch together twice a month while at school is something I’ll always prioritize up until the day we part ways. We don't have to be together every second — but when we are — I know I feel safe and am with someone who will always have my best interest at heart. I’ll miss going out for food with her after we graduate but always know she’s one call or FaceTime away when I’m looking for someone to make me smile.

— Sarah O'Leary, a senior communication studies major with an emphasis on interpersonal communication, is interning with the Office of Marketing and Communications this spring. She is a native of Scranton and is an avid Harry Styles fan.

#BloomOnward #HuskyLife

Live every day as a Husky like it's your last

One minute I was in South Beach, Miami, with my best friends. We’d been waiting for this trip all semester counting down the days. In my head it was the start of a fun rest of my final semester. I knew warmer weather was coming to Bloomsburg, and it’s always my favorite part of the year when everyone is outside the last couple months.

I spent that week with some of my very best friends from my college career, and we spent that whole week so happy and living life to the fullest. We had no clue that our time as college seniors was over.

That all took a turn as the week progressed. We found out spring break was extended and at that point like any college student we were happy. But as we found out how serious this all is and the news that we would not be returning, it felt unreal. If someone were to ever tell us, “Hey your senior year is going to end in early March.”

We probably would have done a lot of things different. We would’ve taken advantage of the times we were together more. We would’ve said yes to dinners, drives, living room hangouts- really anything, if we had known it was over.

As awesome as the technology we’re all lucky to have is, it doesn’t make up for the lost memories. I'm happy I still get to text, Facetime, and Snapchat, my best friends in a time where we're unable to spend the time together.

As a senior there were so many things I thought I had more time to do. I wasn’t at the point where I was thinking I was doing my “lasts.” I wish we all could have known that our end was about to be cut short.

If there's anything I could say to my younger friends who are coming back to Bloomsburg in the fall; I would say don’t fail to take advantage of any time you have with your best friends in this town.

Go to commons as a group, stay up all night binge watching that show with your roommates, don’t be annoyed you have to attend that chapter meeting, walk around campus and take in the beauty of the trees and the people you’re surrounded by.

Appreciate every day you have left, and use this as a reminder that not everything is going to go as planned. They say you should live every day like your last — so make sure you live every day as a Husky like it's your last, because it might be. For many of us it is.

We will find a way to give Bloomsburg a proper goodbye, but for now all we can do is be thankful for the memories we have that make this so hard, and overall be thankful for our health.

— Drew Hess, a senior communication studies major and emergent media minor, is interning with the Office of Marketing and Communications. She is a native of Stowe, Vt., a town of 4,472 people in northern Vermont known for its trails and ski slopes.

#BloomOnward #HuskyLife

Live your last like it’s your first

As I wrap up my fall semester of senior year, I’ve realized it slowly hitting me that I’m actually going to be graduating next semester. I never thought my turn to graduate would come so fast. When I came here as freshman, the orientation workshop leaders said time would fly by in the blink of an eye, but I always shrugged it off. Almost four years later flashed by before my eyes and now I definitely see what they meant.

I remember my first semester at Bloom like it was yesterday. A completely new environment, new people, and a chance to become a new me. Bloomsburg University became my home away from home. Something I thought another place could never be.

Every year I’ve come back, it’s just as exciting and nerve-wracking as the one before. The feeling of anticipation for what fun the new semester will bring. New opportunities, fresh starts, and new memories with old friends.

Reflecting on my college career, I’m glad Bloomsburg University gave me the chance to grow as a person. My first semester here, I was a shy 18-year-old that only went to class. Now, I’m so much more involved on campus in organizations such as BUNow as a social media editor, I’m member of the International English Honors Society Sigma Tau Delta, and the vice president of my sorority, Chi Sigma Rho. If I hadn’t chose to go to Bloom, I don’t think I would have learned what I have and met the people that I did to help me become the confident and involved person I am today.

The classes I’ve taken and professors I’ve had have given me important knowledge that I know will be crucial to be successful in my future. This university has definitely prepared me for the “real world” and I feel confident I’m prepared to handle whatever comes my way after I graduate.

My time here has allowed me to not only gain lifelong skills like time management, leadership, independence, and effective communication, but friends that I’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Our college years are some of the most difficult times of our lives. Most of us are off on our own for the first time, living in a new area, and having to make new relationships with all kinds of different people. Not to mention the different and overwhelming stressors that we all can experience during these years.

I’ve been able to go through the hard times of college with the friends I’ve made. Whether it be getting a bad grade, or just having a rough day, I’ve always had someone to lean on or ask for support.

As I go into my last semester of my undergraduate college career ever, I want to live it up as if it’s my first. Any chance I get, I want to make sure I’m living the moment to the fullest. Every new opportunity that comes my way I’m going to make sure I experience it. Any campus events I’m able to go to like Free Food Friday, bingo or trivia at the KUB, I’ll be there. I want to spend as much time as I can on campus just taking in the time I have here, while I still have it.

Most seniors take easy classes their last semester, but I want to take advantage of the last bit of time I have as an undergraduate student and continue to learn as much as I can in as many different areas as I can. I’m even going to make sure I utilize all of the resources Bloom offers as much as I can like attending more Professional U workshops, and even applying to present in the Husky Student Leadership Summit.

Years from now, when I look back on my college years, I want to have no regrets and no missed opportunities I wish I took. My time at Bloomsburg University will be a piece of my life that I’ll always be proud of myself for.

When I walk across that stage at the end of next semester, I will be grateful for the memories I’ve made while a student here. Bloomsburg University will always be a part of me, and I know I’ll always be a part of Bloomsburg.

Once a Husky, always a Husky!

— Samantha Bergan, senior mass communications major and English minor

#BloomOnward #HuskyLife

And just like that it’s over

Maybe for many college is just college. To them it’s simple. You attend classes, make friends, identify a career path and graduate. Then you move on to your adult life. That’s the plan, simple and sweet.

But to me, college ended up being so much more. Bloomsburg University was a gift.

I can honestly say this place has shaped me into a person I’m very proud of. I have direction. I have confidence. I have appreciation, and I now have perspective. I owe Bloomsburg a huge thank you for that. Thank you Bloomsburg for giving me my people. People who became friends. Friends who became my family.

I learned that when surrounding yourself with the right people you will only end up with positive, contagious energy. That’s how I know found the right group.

Not just any people, but the best people. No one can say they are leaving with a group of people like I am. Not only did you give me these people, but I’m lucky enough to be leaving with them. They’re my people.

Thank you Bloomsburg for helping me to grow and clearly see what matters. You revealed so much to me, shedding light on who the real people are in my life.

This four-year journey, a road traveled with many ups and downs has led me to this end where I see those who’ve kept pace. These are the people you want in your life. I’ve finally learned to let go, and thank you Bloomsburg for that lesson. It suits me well.

Here I am in my last days in Bloomsburg, and I can’t help but think if I didn’t go this school, without these people would I be the same person?

It’s easy to miss people, miss a place, but I am going to miss this time in my life. I never realized when people say this is the best four years of your life... but dang they were right.

It's the end of an era, and it feels like the worst break up in my life. I had so many firsts here. I vividly remember my first drive here, and now I must face my last drive home.

I don’t want to say the word home, because this is my home... or was my home. I'm so lucky I have a place in my life to be so difficult to leave.

And just like that it’s over. I wish I would've told myself freshman year, don’t blink.

— Annie Pitts, senior communication studies major #AGreatPlaceToBeYou #HuskyLife

I say the Bloom Us, because it's a different us

Well, here we are. I waited until the end to write my goodbye to you, because I knew it would be the hardest.

It wasn’t the dorms that brought us together, or a class, or a club; it was solely because we were meant to be best friends. I've never met someone so much like me, yet so different.

I love the way I can smirk at you, and you know exactly what I’m thinking. Sometimes our telepathy scares me. We basically have our own language, because no one understands us when we talk. I never am not laughing with you. Usually laugh at ourselves and the unfortunate events in our lives but at least I know I have someone to laugh with me.

Though we have spent every waking minute together, you would think we would get sick of each other, but we never have. Guess that’s when you know when you’ve become best friends.

I’m going to miss you the most. Not like missing you because I'll never see you or talk to you again, but I'm going to miss this. Here ... us, the Bloom Us.

I say the Bloom Us, because it's a different us. The Bloom Us is by each other's side everyday. We’re together so much. We know our schedules. After graduation we won’t be able to walk four houses down to each other. Clearly, leaving this place our relationship won’t change, but the Bloomsburg relationship is coming to an end. That’s what I'm sad to say goodbye to.

Closing this chapter has made me realize the special place this place has in my heart. I know this is the place where we had the most cherished memories together. It's where we grew together and became best friends.

We grew in so many ways. We matured. We shared hardships. I’m glad we did. Through it all we now can recognize what's real.

Though throughout these four years we had different paths, we still had the same intersection. I promise that wont change. Not only did we grow together, but we found our people together. Our crew. Thank you to my Bloomsburg Crew, for the best four years I could have asked for.

Haley, Jul, Amy, Taylor Brooke, and Rachel: People like you guys have changed my outlook on life when I found you all as my people. I never had such good vibes. Not many can say we had an entire group of people who stuck with each other for the whole four years.

These laughs will forever stay the same. Just now, there will be a little more distance in between them.

— Annie Pitts, senior communication studies major #AGreatPlaceToBeYou #HuskyLife

The boys across the hall

Let’s be honest, you weren’t my favorite people in the world. But look at us now, one of my hardest goodbyes.

I didn’t believe that being somewhere at the exact moment in time mattered for certain things to happen, but I was wrong. It does.

Without Bloomsburg University assigning me to Elwell Hall - ground floor - dorm G29. I would’ve never met not only my first Bloom friends but my best friends.

It’s weird to think the very first people I met on move-in day would be in my life for the next four years. You two were my brothers away from home. I had you for the laughs and for the venting, both essential things for me surviving freshmen year … actually these four years.

You can definitely say I was never bored with you guys. Always trying to get under our CA skin, and constantly trying to cause some kind of ruckus in the hallway. Even if I was laughing, after four years, you’re still not funny. Well, Jimmy I guess you’re a little funny.

Living one foot away from each other was not easy trust me. Besides hearing the constant sound of knocking on my door, every day, I would wake up to either music blasting through the hallway and fall asleep your obnoxiously loud voices fighting over FIFA.

Little disclosure, I used to try and sneak in my dorm without you guys knowing I was there so I could be alone for five minutes max. Soon, I’m going to wish for those knocks.

Every time I see you Jimmy, there’s that goofy smile. Instant good mood. I could always count on that, and soon I’ll be needing one with no Jimmy in sight.

And Jack, you’ve always been there … literally. I would’ve told you how much I appreciate you, but I didn’t want to give you too much confidence. Knowing you … I wouldn’t hear the last of it.

I can’t picture my life without you two. I consider myself the luckiest freshman being placed in that dorm. I'm even now the luckiest senior knowing that our friendship won’t just stop after college.

Thank you, Bloomsburg. Thank you for giving me Jimmy and Jack ... "The boys across the hall."

— Annie Pitts, senior communication studies major #AGreatPlaceToBeYou #HuskyLife

So not ready for this

These goodbyes are not going to be easy. I figured they wouldn’t, but it doesn’t help … and I haven’t even gotten to them yet. Dang ... Liz, I’m going to miss you.

You are the funniest, most caring and beautiful person I know. Your contagious good energy gave me a new aspect on life. I’ve learned how to not care and just let things go. Thank you. There aren’t enough people like you in this world, Liz.

My 1,000-picture photo album of you is one of my most prized possessions and making your Tri Sigma scrapbook will be one of the greatest, yet hardest tasks of my life. Capturing your best moments at Bloomsburg University these past three years has been awesome, mainly because I got to share them with you and knowing you’ll have these memories forever.

I’ve put a lot of pressure on this scrapbook, which circles from Bids Night to the Phillies game and around all of those random candids, because I want you to remember not only how much BU has loved you but how much I have too. I may have taken the Big role a little too serious, but you were my first little sister. I’m sorry … but worth it, right?

I remember Po and I instantly clicking with you, and knew you were a combination of each of us. Little did I know you would go on to have such an impact on my life.

Without joining Tri Sigma, I wouldn't have met you and gained this type of relationship. Without joining Tri Sigma, I would’ve never met all these amazing sisters who each have helped me grow into the person I am.

Thank you, Bloomsburg University. Thank you for giving me Tri Sigma and my Little … Liz.

It’s different saying goodbye to all my friends, because we’re all leaving this spring and have to figure out our next step together. Liz, you’re different.

You’re different because I’m leaving you behind. I have to watch you enjoy your last year over social media instead of living it alongside you. I have to hear about your life over the phone, instead of walking three feet down Lightstreet.

Planning to talk to you over the phone is just an early reminder how far apart we will be. I’ll miss being able to claim you as my little person, but I’m excited for you. Trust me, I am.

It’s one more year for you, so do everything you love most about this place. I have two months left, so I know how fast it goes. Being tired or stressed out doesn’t last, but the memories with your best friends do.

— Annie Pitts, senior communication studies major #AGreatPlaceToBeYou #HuskyLife

One last drive back

I’ve pictured my final days of college my whole life, and it’s finally here. I still can’t believe it.

It hit me on the drive back to Bloomsburg from my home in West Chester. I used to hate the thought of driving two hours in a car, but in the course of my four years it was something I grew to love. It's two hours alone of reflection for me to think and listen to my favorite country songs on the loudest volume.

However, this last drive back to Bloomsburg was not one I was looking forward to.

It was the last “back to school” car ride, and I was fully aware of that. I felt as if I was doing more thinking then belting out to my music. I knew what this drive meant. It meant my last drive to this town. It meant that everything I was about to be doing the minute I entered the town was my last. I admit, it’s a bit strange to now be saying, “My last ..." It seems like yesterday I was just saying, “My first ...”

My first semester, my first class, my first college friend, etc. Thankful for all “my firsts,” because I fell in love with this school in a way I never expected to, just wishing for the summer to end so I would be able to come back.

Without all these firsts, I would have never been the person who I am today. That first week of that first semester started a new beginning of a new me. Even after four years, you're never quite sure what a semester will bring you. It’s funny how each semester has a different feeling to it. The seasons are completely different and the mood of each changes.

The obvious difference of the days being shorter in the winter, a positive vibe emerges when the sign of snow is melting and warmth is coming. Having the constant reminder this being the “season finale,” seniors want to get in as much fun as possible.

Roughly two weeks into my last — ah, there it is — "my last ... semester" I can see my senioritis kicking in. I just want to be able to savor every moment I have before I no longer can. 

How can I focus on school when trying to get a job? How can I focus when I have limited time with these people ... my Bloom people?

You never realize how much you change over four years. It’s not a drastic type of change but it’s a type of growth that hits you on your senior year. A growth that allows you to look back on your three years and think “she was so young, so naïve.”

It’s a growth that allows you to see the people who are there for you and those who are not. It’s a growth that allows you to see the skills you have when taking on the real world, and the growth you have to look back and thank this place for giving me the memories I'll have forever.

— Annie Pitts, senior communication studies major #AGreatPlaceToBeYou #HuskyLife

If I knew then what I know now

Dear High School Jenna,

Hey, it’s me! Well you, four years from now. I know you think college graduation is so far away, but let me tell you … it will be here in a blink of an eye. I know, because that’s exactly how I felt at this time four years ago. And here we are, Jenna. Days away from graduating college, and I never thought this day would come this soon. I still clearly remember being anxious to graduate high school. And yet, again with the butterflies of wondering what’s next in store. No worries. It’s going to be okay. I know, because I’ve made it this far.

Jenna, Bloomsburg University was a great choice

You’re going to have many college choices; but in the end, you’ll select Bloomsburg University. It will be a great decision. This town will truly become a second home. Do yourself a favor though and explore more your freshman year.

Do not wait until junior year to finally go to the Bloomsburg Diner to eat the amazing omelets you love so much and try out Fog and Flame, because they really know how to make those fancy Instagram worthy drinks you always wanted to try. Get more involved freshman year, please don’t wait. I know right now you’re busy with choir, cheerleading, numerous clubs and just want a little break, but you’ll realize real-fast you enjoy being involved and will wish you did more once you reach senior year. Trust me.

And, oh yea … learn all you can from your internship and work-study position with the university’s Office of Marketing and Communications from Tom McGuire and Jaime North, because this will help you discover that you want to work in higher education after graduation.

Jenna, don’t stop making friends

So you’ll realize fast you truly don’t know anyone in college, but you’ll meet so many amazing people as time goes by. Freshman year, leave your door open and meet the people on your floor! I wish more people would have done this sooner, because you’ll meet great people. Like the guys across the hall, who were always nice enough to let my roommate Kaitlyn and I borrow their vacuum, or the girls who lived down the hall, Dannah and Hannah, who will eventually become your roommates. Know that everyone you meet and become friends with will help you in some way and change you for the better.

In class, talk to the people around you and get to know them, you never know when you are going to need a study partner or you might even find one of your closest friends, like Sidney, who you actually end up going on a cruise with. Speaking of the cruise. Go on it! At first you will think it is too much money, but in the end you will be sitting on a beach in the Bahamas so thankful that you went.

Go to Haas Center of the Arts and audition for the Bloomsburg University Choir, because we know how much you like to sing and you will miss it dearly when you no longer do. Go to the activities fair and find an organization called Alpha Phi Omega. This is where you will find “your people.” Alpha Phi Omega is where I found some of my very best friends in college like my senior year roommates, Alicia and Aleigha, plus my big and little, Rachel and Carly, and how I really was able to get involved on campus.

Jenna, balance is key

Okay so you know how you told yourself you were going to go to the gym like every day in college and get in shape? Well freshman year you did, but then you got busy with school and barely had time to devote as much time to it as you used to. Make the time because you’ll be less stressed and honestly it will become the “me time” you need each day. Do not get into the habit of procrastinating. I know things come up that sound like better alternatives to studying, but when you see Summa Cum Laude written on your graduation packet you will feel really accomplished and it will all be worth it, trust me (you know you want the honors cords too).

Go to trivia night, why I waited till senior year is beyond me. It’s basically like Jeopardy, but you actually win a prize. Get a job. Working during the summer all the time is not fun, but you are going to need and want the money. College is expensive. I wish I would have worked during the semester earlier because senior year I did, at your favorite restaurant actually, Marley’s, hosting and serving. Not gonna lie, it was rough to balance everything, but having money makes it worth it.

Jenna, calm down. You made it!

You stress too much about the little things. Like your chemistry class the very first semester of college year where you got your first C, but guess what you studied hard and ended the class with an A-. Then there is economics, which will become your minor, these classes will challenge you but we know you like to be challenged. There is the fear you will not graduate on time, but girl you are graduating a semester early because of those AP classes you are in right now. Soon final exams will be over and I will graduate, then I’m off the real world. You made it Jenna! Take a deep breath and enjoy your next few years, because they’ll be some of the best years of your life. Trust me.

Sincerely,
     Jenna Fuller, Bloomsburg University Class of 2018

Suddenly, you’re walking across the stage

Seeing myself in my cap and gown for the first time, I can’t help but think about all of the little pieces of life that led me here. I will be the first in my family to graduate from a four-year university, and there were honestly so many times when I didn’t think I would even make it here.

Freshman year I even considered transferring. The years I’ve spent at Bloomsburg have been fun, terrifying, soul crushing, magical and amazing. Not to say I wouldn’t do some things differently if I could, but as they say, hindsight is 20-20.

I would tell myself not to worry so much. Of course, every freshman worries. They worry about who they’ll eat lunch with, if they’ll get lost looking for their classes. They wonder if they’re supposed to ask to use the bathroom during class (I asked to go to the bathroom in my first college class EVER and everyone laughed so if you have to go, save yourself the shame and just slip out quietly). Things will work out. Let yourself enjoy the newness of college and be open to learning as you go.

I would tell myself to talk to EVERYONE. People you meet in the elevator, people you sit next to in class, people in line as you wait for food. That’s the one, surefire way to make friends. Just start chatting about the weather or the homework from the previous class, and suddenly you’ve got someone to eat lunch with tomorrow, or study at Starbucks with. Take comfort in knowing that 95 percent of the people around you feel the same way you do, and just want people to talk to and understand the struggles of college life.

I would tell myself to say yes more. Go to more football games, go to more drag shows, go to more bingo nights. Go to more parties, go to more dance showcases, get more pink wieners. I can assure you, you’ll regret the times you said no more than the times you said yes. If something seems even remotely interesting, do it. Join a club and only go to one meeting, sign up for an intramural sport only to realize you have no coordination. The only way to find your people is to try literally everything until you do.

I would tell myself to enjoy every, single moment. Not just the big things, but everything. Getting late night with your friends, ordering Chinese food to the dorms, signing the lease for your first apartment, the first time you ever got a $2 bill from $2 Bob, getting breakfast with your roommates telling stories of the previous night. Take in every moment, because one day you'll think you have all the time in the world to do the things you’ve always wanted to in college, and then suddenly you’re walking across the stage wondering where the time even went.

Being a college student has changed me in both the best and the worst ways, and I wouldn’t trade a single second of it. I have grown more in these four years than I have in my entire life, and I am so proud of the person I am today. I am a Stranger Things enthusiast, I am a lover of pretzellinis, I am a local sorority member, I am a public relations professional, and I am now a Bloomsburg University alumna!

— Danielle Backowski, senior mass communications major #HuskyLife

Be careful what you wish for

When I was a freshman, all I wanted was to be a senior. To be on my way to a big girl job, be 21 and have my life figured out. Going to the Student Services Center the other day to pick up my graduation tickets made me realize I’m now at that place … and all I want to do is go back.

Lucky for me, there are still things I can do one last time I loved doing my freshman year.

Going to the Scranton Commons with a big group of friends was something I did often, especially when everyone ran out of flex four weeks before the semester ended. There’s nothing like eating plates and plates of food and grabbing a warm cookie for the road with your friends.

Seeing movies on campus was a treat back in the day, especially since I didn’t have a car and could never get to the movie theater. Bloomsburg always has the best and most current movies, so I never felt like I was missing out on anything. Plus, who can say no to a free movie?

Even though I literally NEVER won anything, midnight bingo was always a fun way to get out of the dorms and meet new people. Plus, a little friendly competition against your roommate and friends doesn’t hurt.

Living with a roommate can be annoying and crowded, but most of the time it’s like being at a sleepover. I loved having someone there to talk to when I was bored or needed advice or to vent. The bond you have with your roommate is something you can’t replicate. Whether it’s freshman or senior year, roommates are something to be treasured.

While I have the ability to do some of these things before I graduate, it certainly won’t be the same. My advice, whatever year you are, is to enjoy where you’re at. I wish I had taken the time to really enjoy and make the most out of every year, rather than looking for the next best thing.

Senior year approaches more quickly than you think, so take your time and have fun.

— Danielle Backowski, senior mass communications major #HuskyLife

I wouldn’t change a thing

Thousands of dollars. Four years of your time. I thought it sounded awful, too, just a short three and a half years ago when I was getting ready to leave for college.

I didn’t have the best time in high school, and I thought college was going to be an exact repeat of that. But I was so wrong. I’d be lying if I said college is easy. College is tough and at times, it will test your limits. But college is more than just being young dumb and broke. College is about learning about who you are.

What I've learned

• Get Involved — While your GPA is important, it's not the only thing employers are looking for. While joining extracurriculars are certainty a good resume boost, they also allow you to meet new people. Some of the best friends I’ve made in college are because of the activities I’m involved in. #ThanksDPhiE
• Go to class — Read the first sentence of this post and come back to this line. Yes, you’re paying THOUSANDS of dollars to be in school. Show up to class and participate.
• Ask for help — As I previously mentioned, college is not always going to be easy. There will be times where it gets both academically and emotionally hard. Whether or not it seems like it, the faculty and staff at Bloomsburg University are here to help you and want to see you succeed. If you’re struggling in a class, visit that professor during your office hours. If you’re struggling with life, go to the counseling center. At the end of the day, it’s okay not to be okay and it’s okay to ask for help. But people can’t help you if you don’t ask for it!
  
• Utilize Campus’ Resources — As much as you don’t want to admit it, the time will come where you will have to be a grown up and get a job or go to grad school. But what is going to separate you from the thousands of other people you are competing with? Experience. ProfessionalU offers so many resources for FREE that I encourage you to take advantage of. Give up a Saturday every now and then and attend these professional development opportunities — your future self will thank you for it.
• Enjoy it. Every second of it! — You get out of college what you put into it, and I really encourage you to make the most of it while you can. Four years is really over in the blink of an eye, and someday you’ll wish you had these moments back.

The only thing you’ll regret are the chances you didn’t take. College is your time to take as many chances as you want — to make mistakes and to learn from them. You never know what could happen if you never try. If taking a chance causes you to fall flat on your face, at least you learned how to get back up. It’s hard to believe that I only have one semester left, and if I could do it all over again I wouldn’t change a thing.

— Kim Oaster, senior mass communications and marketing dual major #HuskyLife

I am on the right path!

As the weeks count down closer to the big day of graduation I have found myself investing more time into career development, attending all different Professional U workshops. Perfecting my resume, cover letters, elevator pitch and more than I ever knew went into a “professional brand."

Throughout this process, I have learned job hunting is a full time job in itself. I mean researching each company, tailoring each application perfect and keeping track of the requirements of each. As crazy as it sounds, I think I’ll actually miss my 15 page research papers.

But with the help of career development office and special shout out to the counselor Luke, they’ve been by my side throughout the process. Even during my mini anxiety attacks about the “futureeeee” (dun dun dunnnn!). Seriously, it can be really scary to plan for the unknown. Not really knowing where life is going to take you, what job opportunities will open up or the alternative paths you’ll have to take.

And it seems life as soon as someone finds out you’re graduating they go into a game of 21 questions, where you’re supposed to have the answers to life figured out. One of the workshops I attended called “Answering Career Questions” helped me get through Thanksgiving break and my oh-so nosey family members.

What I really loved about that workshop was it was really a conversation between us (the participants) and the workshop leaders. Centennial 108 turned into a safe space where people had the opportunity to share their insecurities about college, their major choice or what the future has in store for them. And the workshop leaders did an awesome job of helping us explore why we felt this way and gave us solid resources to explore.

Like this website onetoonline.org that you can search any career field or major and see what kinds of jobs are out there. After that workshop I felt totally confident to tell people what “someone with a communication degree” does.

One piece of advice I can give to anyone either in my shoes or will be shortly is: take your time, soak up as much information as you can and practice! Make sure you attend career development workshops and pace yourself. That’s what has been working for me so far.

With less than 50 days until I moon walk across Haas stage, I still have lots of room to grow; but I trust I am on the right path!

— Giovanna Andrews, senior communication studies major #HuskyLife

One Last Time: 7 things for seniors to do this spring semester

It’s hard for me to believe the spring semester is almost here. It already has a different mood than any semester I’ve been through before.

This spring will be full of so many “last times,” and offers so many “first evers”, too. I plan to make this the most memorable semester with my friends before starting, what my mom calls, my “big girl job.” I also would like to get myself organized for when I move out of college and start this new chapter. I’m sure I’m not the only one in saying that I definitely need to figure out how to make student loan payments, how to buy a new vehicle, and other adult-like things.

But until we get those figured out, here’s to the last time being an undergrad college student and the seven things you most positively should do before leaving.

• Take a picture with Roongo: It’s unknown for most if you’ll be on campus again, so you might as well get a picture with our mascot while you have the chance. BONUS: take a picture with your friends at the Roongo statue on the corner near the Tri-Level.
• Play on the Quad: Pick a sunny day and have some fun with friends on the quad. Whether its cartwheels, catch, or one of those giant bouncy houses, get your friends together and go make some memories! Frolic to your hearts content.
• Eat at the Commons: At least once before you graduate, have an all you can eat buffet at the Commons with your squad. Roll in like you’re a freshman who’s never heard of the freshman 15 and make sure you leave with either a cookie or an ice cream cone. You could even eat dessert first, why not?!
• Do something out of the ordinary: Everyone has their limits, but do yourself the favor and come out of your comfort zone a little bit. That’s why we come to college anyways, to experience new things. It could be something as small as studying in a different spot or something as wild as taking a spring break trip out of the country. Take advantage of any and all opportunities while you have the time.
• Take part in a tradition on campus: Be a part of The Big Event, Relay for Life, Spring Fest, or anything else that pops up. Not only is it a meaningful experience, but you might end up in the yearbook that way. Plus, it’s a great way to show your Husky Pride!
• Go for a walk on campus: Not just any walk, take a self-guided tour of campus while taking in the flowers in bloom. See what I did there, hahaha, but seriously, our campus has so many beautiful sights to be seen and some hidden treasures to be found. Pick any random Sunday afternoon and reflect while walking. Think about the reasons you chose BU, the people you’ve met here, the things you’ve learned, and how far you’ve come in the last four years.
• Thank those who’ve helped you: Maybe write a thank you letter to your parents or grandparents and hand it to them at graduation. You could have them read it while they are waiting for your name to be called. Don’t forget to thank those professors who you really learned a lot from and those who went out of their way to help you succeed.

Even if you aren’t a senior yet, you should still do these things. Also understand that your time is coming soon and it’s never too early to start planning for your senior year- it comes faster than you think. Make sure you have all your classes organized and your GEP goals met; you’ll thank yourself when you are trying to graduate on time. Be proactive in your career search and look for grad schools and internships before your senior year.

Most importantly, enjoy being on campus with your friends and make the most out of the time you are here. From one Husky to another, let’s make this semester the best one yet!

— Jessica Shiptoski, senior accounting major, professional writing minor, fraud examination concentration #HuskyLife #WinterBreak

Best of luck Class of 2015 ... it’s been a wild ride!

It’s May, and that end of the year feeling is overtaking me as I walk by students sun-bathing on the Quad and try to find a cubby in the overpopulated construction site that is the library. As each day passes and I cross off another completed assignment on my agenda, the reality of graduating is still not sinking in.

Every day I wake up I go through the same routine: open my graduation countdown app on my phone. I feel a mixture of anxiety and excitement as the days, hours, minutes, and seconds until Saturday, May 9, continue to tick on by. And still, even with the countdown, picking up my cap and gown, and leaving my last college class…I cannot fathom the realization that this is all coming to an end.

It is so cliché to say four years have come and gone, but really, they have. I remember as if it were yesterday so nervously moving into Lycoming Hall freshman year. I remember actually getting lost trying to find my classes. And crying because I could not picture having to go through seven more semesters of exams, all of those dreaded group projects, and the hell week that is finals.

But I would honestly do it all over again if I could. Seniors… we will never again have the chance to live with all of our best friends and experience our crazy times side by side. None of my roommates are moving out or graduating, just me. So it’s been extra emotional as I start to see my room slowly emptying and theirs staying the same.

I don’t think I appreciated the small town atmosphere of Bloomsburg as much as I will when I move. Being able to go out on a run by myself late at night is a luxury we should be thankful for. And not having to worry about walking home alone after night class is something we all take for granted. This is such a great area with so much to offer.

But what I will miss the most about BU is the people. From my professors, my advisor, my internship supervisor, my friends, my classmates…. I’m truly in denial that we won’t be together anymore. As graduation approaches, I’ve really discovered whom I have been able to impact and those who have impacted me over the years. I’ve received so many small gestures of thanks and goodbyes from those who care about me, which of course, immediately turned me into a puddle of tears.

We remember kindness. And never forget meanness. I can definitely say that I have come across more people on the “kind” spectrum here. Being a good person will serve us all in the long run, both on a professional and personal level.

Reflecting back to high school graduation, this feels so different. I was so carefree and excited to leave high school and get away to college, meet new people, and have a fresh start. But now, this period of my life is so overwhelming. Every five seconds I feel like someone asks me, “So what are your plans after graduation?” as I try not to roll my eyes and scream I DON’T KNOW.

I’m trying my best to stay calm and have fun in this awkward stage by slowing down and enjoying these last few weeks of not knowing what’s to come.

Seniors - we really need to stop trying to put it all together, or we will never feel truly satisfied. After sitting down with my advisor one last time, I expressed to her my panic about not having a job lined up. She simply told me, “Take your time."

We shouldn’t settle for any kind of position that doesn’t make us happy or isn’t suited for us.

Because of the amazing internship I experienced during this final semester, I realized one thing about the job hunt: I should not EVER settle for anything that doesn’t make me as excited and happy as I was going to my internship.

Seniors, we need to search for a position and company we truly love to work for, because if you love what you do, you’ll be thinking about it all the time and constantly striving to be your best.

— Rachael Scicchitano, senior communication studies major #HuskyLife #ProfessionalU