End-of-Year Update: My Journey So Far

I remember, less than 8 months ago, searching for my place here at the University of Louisville, and I can wholeheartedly tell you all that I have found more than I could have ever dreamt of finding.

Hello, Ruth here!

I have had the honor of sharing my first year as a college student with you all. I cannot express my gratitude enough to all of you who have read my followed my journey by reading my blog, those of you who supported me inside and outside of the classroom, and even those who made sure I had an experience worth writing about. Before writing this last blog of the year, I planned on highlighting moments. However, as I began writing, I quickly noticed it would take me more than a blog post to reminisce along with you all. So, I want to dedicate this post to thanking those of you who have given me strength through my journey thus far.

I came to the University of Louisville expecting to grow as a person but I never could have guessed just how much. I owe it to my large support system- from my loving parents, sisters and brothers, to the coworkers and advisors with whom I have shared the milestones of my first year. To my mother, who has given me the strength to push through even the darkest of moments - or lowest of plummets - I thank you for constantly demonstrating to me what it means to be a woman with purpose. To Mary Kenzer, my rock, you have reassured me of my potential when I lost sight of my end goal - and for that, I am forever indebted by you. For Annie Fitzpatrick, my advisor, holding my hand through some of the toughest academic decisions I have ever had to make, you have restored my faith in humanity. For Errol Wint, having someone to talk to carries more weight than many like to admit- thank you for speaking some sense into me, listening to me, believing in me and recommending me for each and every organization, club, scholarship and leadership position that I have been honored to be a part of thus far. Jamie Smith, Austin Ferrell- those weekly texts, random reminders to strive for greatness have truly given me strength.

For all the professors who noticed my change in behavior, I thank you for giving me two, three, four chances to bring myself back around. For Edita and Kevin, my babies who are quickly becoming everything but babies, all I do, I do for you. For Sedekia Peter, my voice of reason, thank you for covering my blind spot, thank you for defying all odds as an African, first-generation college male- proving to me that us Peters are capable of just about anything. For Sifa, you have been more to me than you will ever know. My heart is full of love for the support you have for me and Sede.

I remember, less than 8 months ago, searching for my place here at the University of Louisville, and I can wholeheartedly tell you all that I have found more than I could have ever dreamt of finding. I am a Woodford R. Porter Scholar, Cardinal Covenant recipient, Muhammad Ali Scholar, C.O.N.E.C.T. Mentor, I am a member of Empowering Ladies Together, and African Student Union, I am in Diversity Leadership Institute, I am a Peer Advisor, and an Honor student.

This past academic year has been extraordinary!

I am tearful when I reminisce on this eventful year. More importantly, I am hopeful for the years to come.

For all of you, and many more, I thank you.

I am because you are.

REMEMBER: Just a reminder that not all positive changes feel positive in the beginning but at the University of Louisville, you will be just fine!

Ruth Peter

Publications Assistant

Class of 2020