The small town that I come from is so dear to my heart. It will always be a part of me. I am so thankful for growing up with such a tight knit community behind me and for all the memories they gave me. However, I came to Columbus, Ohio; the city. Never have I been so awestruck by “everyday occurrences” such as hearing sirens all night, city busses, a walk across the street to essentially any restaurant I want, or the need to carry pepper spray. I have never been exposed to the sounds of so many people walking along one street, laughing and living: but separately, without recognition of each other. Needless to say, I have already grown so much in my time here. I am so privileged to have gone beyond my small town and experience this lifestyle. And I’m just getting started! The picture above was taken by my friend Maggie during our visit downtown for my roommate’s birthday. It may appear as just a very aesthetically pleasing background, but to me it is much more. Behind me holds so many opportunities: the memories I will make, the people I will meet, the chances I will take, the mistakes I will make. It holds my future. Soon, I will enter that background, along with many larger backgrounds, and leave my impact. Today, I study, learn, work and live for the chance to do that. And back home, I know everyone is rooting for me to do the same.