I’m writing this piece in my room at Wheaton’s Emerson Feminist Perspectives House, with the winds of (not-so-scary) Hurricane Jose slamming against the windows. From the way the storm was described in official college emails, I had expected much more than some winds and a little rain. However, being inside for most of the day snuggled up with a cup of coffee has given me time to reflect on the beginnings of my final year here.

I have been thinking much today about the things we choose to give our valuable time to, as well as the things we don’t. If you’re anything like I was as an underclassman, I always joined far too many clubs at the activities fair. I’d find myself ending up on at least 10 different mailing lists, seduced by creative posters and cool upperclassmen who got me to put down my email without a second thought.

I would join at least five of the 10 clubs I signed up for and always found myself dropping things by the third or fourth week of school. Right around this time, actually. I’d stretch myself so thin that I wouldn’t be able to give my time to the things I actually cared about. Over the years, you start to learn what’s important to you in your college career and what truly makes you happy.

The Wire is one of the things that has helped me grow the most during my academic career. It has taught me that I’m more capable than I thought I was and has provided me with so many wonderful opportunities. I’m very sad that Lucas Rosa, our Editor-in-Chief, was unable to write this letter this week. However, I’m glad that it’s given me the chance to talk about how much I love this paper and how important it is to me.

Many of you are just starting your Wheaton journeys, but more of you are returning to campus this fall. I hope that this semester continues to provide you with opportunities to grow and that you find what you are truly passionate about.

-ORM