Holiday gratitude

I’m not going home for Thanksgiving break this year, so I’ll share a few things I’m thankful for here rather than at my aunt’s dinner table.

First and foremost, I am thankful for UD (no, I did not get paid to say that). This is my third year on campus, and I’m starting to realize that my time here is running out. This campus has given me a lot these past years, including my best friends; unforgettable experiences like basketball games; a job I love (no, I was not paid to say that either); exposure to clubs for things I’m passionate about; and an education that will hopefully set me up to be successful once I enter the real world. I really struggled to find my footing here for a while, but my experiences at UD helped me walk a little more confidently. I truly couldn’t be more grateful for that. 

I’m incredibly thankful for 4 Paws for Ability, a wonderful organization based out of Xenia that breeds, raises, and trains service dogs. Joining UD’s 4 Paws club allowed me to meet amazing people and dogs who are trying to make the world a better place. Catan, Snoopy, Foxtrot, Giulia, and Joshua are just some of the 4 Paws dogs that have a special place in my heart.

If you know me, you’re probably shocked I’ve made it this far without talking about music. Let me tell you, I am very thankful for music, and especially live music. My first concert ever was in 2017 and I could not tell you how many I have been to since. It’s probably somewhere around 50. I began concert photography in December of 2021 and I’m so glad I did. I’ve gotten to meet so many people, explore different career paths, and even meet some of my favorite artists like Twenty One Pilots and Jeremy Zucker. I’m not sure what my life would be without music, but I’m grateful that I will likely never be faced with that issue. 

At the end of the day, I’m lucky to live a life that gives me so many things to be grateful for. Almost everything I mentioned so far has some sort of connection with the University of Dayton, so thank you to everyone who makes this university as special as it is. I’m sure I’m not the only one who is so immensely thankful to call this place home.