Delete
Edit embedded media in the Files Tab and re-insert as needed.
I didn’t imagine my senior year ending this way. Spring semester at UIUC has something special about it. Everyone seems to appreciate warm weather and the sun more. I’m going to miss warm sunny days when the Quad is full, and everyone seems to be happier. You can just feel it in the air as you walk to your class on the quad and pass groups playing frisbee or football, eating lunch, or just taking a quick nap between classes in the sun. As you sit on the quad you might be lucky, and someone’s dog will wander over to you.
I had a lot to look forward as the spring semester was finishing out. I was looking forward to running the Illinois Christie Clinic Half Marathon. It was going to be my first time running anything like that and I had been training since winter break. I was also looking forward to Moms Weekend. As a student employee with Parent and Family Programs, the family weekends are my favorite. I love interacting with the parents and their students. It’s always so fun to be at the events and talk to families. I was excited for my senior year Moms Weekend with my own mom too! Luckily, I was able to spend the weekend with her, even though it was just at home.
Although no one could have imagined senior year ending this way, I’m still trying to look towards the positives. I now have more time to spend with my mom before I move this summer for a job. I find myself enjoying and appreciating smaller things that I didn’t before, a game of Scrabble with my family, a walk in some warm weather, or a good book. I wish I could’ve had my last few weeks at UIUC, but I’m grateful for all the time and good memories I’ve made.
Tip for parents/families: Even though there is a lot of stress and bigger things going on right now, it's important to not forget the accomplishment of graduating from the University of Illinois. It's important to celebrate that within your own family.
