What Could Be Better?

      It's the best time of the year: decked out in autumn attire, relieved after submitting college applications, and excited for the upcoming holidays. Submitting two out of three of my college applications last night was thrilling, all I could think about is the year ahead of me. But coming to school today I was reminded that I cannot lose sight of cherishing my senior year while I can. My TA discussed our Hands Full of Heart activity, a day where the sophomores and seniors volunteer at assigned charities and events. My TA made breakfast food for lunch at a women's shelter, and it was the most fun I've had in a long time. We hilariously spilled some pancake mix, sang top 40's hits while making eggs, and got to know each other a bit better while waiting for the sausages to cook. This special yearly activity helps me remember how much fun I've had with these ladies thus far, and that I still have time to get to know them and enjoy their company. And taking a day to volunteer for people in need also instills in me the St. Mary's focus on giving back to our community, which is an aspect of my education that I want to bring with me to college.

       What makes October the best time of the year is the beautiful season. Walking around downtown with my gloves and scarf, huddling with my closest friends while colorful leaves brush our feet - it really couldn't get any better. Plus, with Halloween this week, SMAD.co is getting ready to perform Michael Jackson's Thriller at our Halloween Assembly! The dancers are pretty nervous to perform for the whole school, but I think a fun and festive Halloween number is just what this school needs to kick off their three-day weekend. 

Mmm mmm mm the leaves are falling

         Pumpkins, halloween, beautiful trees, cold weather, warm clothing, seasonal food - just some of my favorite things about October. Now is finally the time of year when student's schedules are settled and classes are starting to become more familiar each day. We are becoming more comfortable with our newfound teachers, classwork, and friends, and our extra curriculars are kicking off. But what was pleasantly new this year was the hype for my senior spirit week. The level of excitement and energy for our senior year was explosive, and I've never seen so much red in my life. After going to lunch time activities and decking out in the daily attire (whether it be pajamas or the tackiest tourist clothes we own) the whole school was more spirited than I've ever seen them. It was a blast to bond even more with my class and enjoy a little competition with the other grades for a week. I can't wait until Doernbecher week, because the seniors still have a lot of fire in them!
          While meeting with my English teacher last week to go over my college essay, we shared a very touching moment that reminded me of how close I am to the faculty of St. Mary's. She commented on how my essay was very authentic to who I am, recounting an old story of me in my freshman year English class doing a self-evaluation. Just the fact that my teacher remembered such a simple incident, and knows me well enough to judge my work and help me improve my writing, made my week.
           As a last tidbit of information, I want to express how in awe I am of the wonderful Blues Bridge Walk that SMA holds each October. This school fundraiser really makes each student feel a part of a team, joining together to collect money for tuition assistance, extracurricular activities, and other academic needs that make the school what it is. As a school we collected over $100,000, and enjoyed a lovely walk to the Steel Bridge and back with friends and coworkers. I reconnected with the ladies in my TA and am sad to have walked my last BBW.