Dear Senior Kira,
How can this be? It was just yesterday you were moving in to your first dorm in Wheeler, and now you have finished your first year of college. It is so hard to believe that everything ended so quickly. That first year proved to yourself how strong you are.
You went through one of the hardest things any college student could imagine; you finished classes through the 2020 pandemic. Even though, you had to switch to online courses you still finished on Dean’s List. It was quite the experience, but you made the best of it.
Even with having to move out early your first year, you had the most fortunate year. You had such an amazing roommate, Anna, and suite mate, Valley, that it made saying goodbye that much harder. Luckily, you lived together for the following years. While in your first year you made friends and had to leave others. You found who you were and created a sense of self understanding that you thought you already had. Kira, you changed so much and made a life of your own, and you should be beyond proud of what you accomplished in just one year.
It was so scary to think that in just your first year you were already a sophomore. That meant you lost a year at the amazing new home you found. Over the years, though, you made up for it and created the greatest memories.
Kira, your perseverance through all the hard classes and sleepless nights paid off. You stuck through all your commitments and tackled so many obstacles. You were rewarded with everything you wanted in just your first year. You did service in another territory with Alternative Breaks and even earned a position of the organization board. You gained a starting position AS A FIRST YEAR in club soccer. You were even one of sixteen chosen to be a Longwood Ambassador! You plate was full, but everyone knew that you could always keep piling because you never stopped.
You should be beyond proud of your service, academics, and the friends you have made over your years at Longwood. You need to stay in touch with everyone and be sure to continue making a difference in the world even if you are officially done with school.
I hope you have continued to push yourself to do well in school all the way through. (You will because I know how hard headed you are) Be proud of what you have done but stay humble and carry your head high.
Last but not least, Kira, we all remember the many breakdowns you had after your first year about not wanting to be a teacher anymore, but be sure to know that you did what was right. Even if you wanted to change your major to anything else, you stuck it through. But remember it was only one year. You went through a lot and it was tough but you kept an open mind. If you want to do education, DO IT. If not, know that you do not have to be a teacher if you truly do not see it. It only takes a small spark to make a big change and you can be that spark just about anywhere.
Stick with your gut that same way you always have. Be your own person, and leave your mark on Longwood.
Stay humble. Live gentle. And be kind.
First Year Kira