By Kiara Catanzaro
Associate Editor
Most seniors write about their experience at The Bona Venture, and how they met their closest friends writing and editing until 4 a.m. Other seniors list the many people who helped them throughout their four years at school and thank them for what they’ve done.
Of course, that’s not what I plan to do. Instead, I want to share some of the things I’ve learned from growing and learning here at St. Bonaventure.
Don’t be afraid to do things that other people aren’t doing. Anyone can have a radio show at the Buzz or a byline in The Bona Venture, but not everyone can say they began a new club on campus or found a unique internship. It’s okay to be different from other people. That will separate you from others. Sure, you won’t get recognized for it, but it’ll help you in the long run. Trust me.
It’s okay to create your own path. Don’t limit yourself to what one university can offer; explore the other options and take advantage of them. Not every professor can guide you to where you need to go. Sometimes, you need to take the time to create your own journey. You’ll feel better knowing you were able to accomplish your goals without the help of someone else.
Don’t waste time with people who don’t deserve your attention. Unfortunately, you will come across people who are negative, hateful or ignorant. Don’t give those people your time or energy. You deserve so much more than to waste precious time on those who don’t build you up.
Do something that scares you. Study abroad in a country where you can’t speak the language. Take a difficult class not in your major so you can learn something new. Ask a guy out who is out of your league. You’ll have a sense of accomplishment no one else can feel because it’s your fear and you conquered it. Congratulations in advanced to the risk-takers.
Don’t let someone tell you that you can’t do something. If they tell you that you can’t, use it as motivation to prove them wrong. Remember, you can and you will achieve whatever you put your mind to.
“Friends” is an interesting term. The reality is, I’d rather have a few genuine friends who are always there for me rather than a group a 10 friends who don’t truly know me. Find the people who you can trust your life with, who will give you a shoulder to cry on and keep in touch with them often. Those are the people who you will cherish most.
Although there is much more I could share, I know I can’t continue on for 1000 more words. Hopefully, I shared some insight that you can learn from whether you’re a freshman, senior or graduate student.
Kiara Catanzaro is an associate editor at
The Bona Venture.
Her email is catanzk12@bonaventure.edu
