the year that was and embrace all that was exciting, sorrowful, joyous and destructive. I for one have had a roller-coaster of a year, with the commencement of university being the greatest challenge and blessing I have experienced.

2014 was not without obstacles, from staying in touch with high school friends to adapting to independent ways of learning. I've essentially been forced to grow up, becoming more and more accountable for my actions and how I choose to live my life. Without these challenges, I would have undoubtedly failed to grow as an individual and never becoming aware of my true desires, aspirations and goals in life. But not all was bad - I've met countless new people, forged strong friendships, immersed myself in new things and became accustomed to less "no's" and more "YES!'s" Looking back on 2014, I'm thoroughly proud of all I have learned, achieved, grown. Never would I have thought I'd find solace in putting myself in new and uncomfortable situations - this is the greatest lesson I've learned all year. The more you are willing to put yourselves in new, challenging and exciting situations, the more you are going enjoy everything around you.

Finally, I wish to end on an optimistic note, and as all hopeful people do amidst the beginning of a new year, here are just some of my resolutions for 2015: