For what it's worth, it was worth all the while

Instead of sleeping it seems only appropriate I blog. I doubt many other people will care but I need to contemplate what Marquette has meant to me, and it has meant a lot more that 140 characters. I could do a Tom Crean, but I think the friends that follow me on their phones would not appreciate it so here I am.

4 years ago if you had told me what I would accomplish at Marquette I probably would have said you were crazy. No way was I not graduating with a Theology degree. Nor would I have fallen head over heals for politics. Let alone for the city of Milwaukee. Heck, I was still struggling to believe I had condemned myself to the state of Wisconsin- and I was certain as soon as I had the chance I would be right back in Farmington Hills. Now don't get me wrong, I miss the hills daily. I miss high school, I miss my friend, my family, my pool, and if I had a dog I'd even miss that. But this place stole my heart.

The way Harry Potter feels about Hogwarts is the best way to describe it. And honestly it's only the start of my feelings for this place, for these people. I can be stuck in Marquette Place at midnight, singing in Chapel of the Holy Family, screaming my lungs out at a basketball game, walking down Wisconsin Avenue in the -20 degree weather, or giving a tour on the most beautiful day and my love remains constant. Constant and strong.

Arrive as you are. Depart transformed. That is the sign I passed at the airport every time I went home. And let me tell you, the school delivered on its promise. It turned me into the woman I hoped to become. Some may disagree, but I believe I am a woman for others. I care for the whole person, live my life AMDG, and my faith is constantly seeking justice. I wanted a school that would be hard to leave- well be careful what you ask for... I got it. But I also wanted a school that I would be INSANELY proud to say I attended. Well, you better believe that I will tell the whole world I attended Marquette.

Someone told me today that out of everyone they know I am the most likely to have a building some day named after me at this university (he also believes I will marry rich and when my husband passes is when I do it). Now I'm not actually expecting to have a Rory Gilmore style conservatory but I will tell you this. This school will never leave my thoughts, my prayers, my mind, or my heart. And if I ever got the chance I would absolutely be donating a building (or tunnels) back to this place.

I was taught how to think. I am leaving with far more questions than answers about life, social justice, and ethics but that is fine because I know I have every tool necessary to move forward. I will continue to ask the hard questions, and probably begin to see in even more shades of grey and I will not shy away from it.

Thank you Marquette, for everything. It has been quite the ride. I had some high, high expectations about this place- each and every one was surpassed. This place really is the dearest friend to all. And to all of you who made it great, thank you as well. Marquette is so much about the people, the most passionate and compassionate I have ever met.