Published: April 27, 2026
The University of Southern Maine has been a consistent part of my life, even though I didn’t really realize it until now. My uncle used to play hockey with his team when I was younger at the USM arena. I would spend a good amount of time watching my uncle play from a corner table in the main lobby. I have a photo of myself sitting on the rock right outside the building. I didn’t know it at the time that was taken, but USM would play an important role in my life.Â
I’ve had cousins and colleagues graduate from USM, and it’s nice to know that I’ve always been a little connected to the University, even though I’ve only been directly associated with it in the past four years. Throughout my time here, I’ve met friends who have changed my life, figured out that my passion for writing goes beyond just poetry, and have grown substantially as a person.Â
Writing for the school paper was just meant to be a way to get my poetry out there, but I found a community (pun intended) at the Free Press. It was nice to write something during college that wasn’t a criminology paper or whining about my emotions.Â
As much as I’m ready to get out of here, I will forever be thankful for the experiences that this school has given me and will continue to help me with.Â
Have an amazing finals week and summer break. For the graduating Huskies, don’t trip, and good luck with everything that your future holds.Â
