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Bringing It Home – The Saint Rose Blog

5 DEFINITIVE THINGS THAT CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE INSTANTLY

What is this, Buzzfeed?

Well, I’ve recently become rather pensive and reflective. This is a little list of some characteristics, traits, and talents I’ve noticed in the amazing people around me, and some that I am even beginning to notice in myself.

These things may not be for you, and that’s okay. Everyone has his or her own way. This list is solely my perspective and insights based on recent events. I’d like to share these insights with you as I’m beginning to notice a pattern in great people.

1. Travel.

Keep this on the top of your list and please don’t lose track of it. I know I post incessantly about the need to get out there and see the world, but that is only because I am positive this topic is applicable to every single one of you. My recent journeys to Switzerland, London and Rome have only fueled my desire to see everything. These weekends have had a huge impact on how I see the world, interact with different people, and view myself. Traveling is valued in so many cultures, by future employers, and is personally rewarding.

Golden Knights go abroad! Best friends reunite in London!

Golden Knights go abroad! Best friends reunite in London!

2. Service Trips.

An uncanny amount of the people I’ve met studying abroad and in my travels have brought up service trips they have participated in. These character-building moments are treasured for a lifetime. Service provides insight and perspective. It’s the big picture stuff that completely eradicates any of the problems we fabricate in our minds. This is a humbling opportunity to participate in something bigger than you. My service trip to NOLA has shaped the way I think, act, and treat others. I find myself thinking about New Orleans, the people we helped, and the friends I made every single day.

NOLA abroad blog

NOLA 2014 Family. Think about you all, our efforts, laughs, and tears every single day.

  1. Poach an egg.

Ironically, you will be hard pressed to find something more character building than poaching an egg. I’m serious. This may sound ridiculous but learning to poach an egg actually taught me patience and persistence. This grandiose gesture is appreciated by anyone. I find poaching to be a great conversation piece and a skill I value (probably a little too much). Plus, who doesn’t love a good brunch?

  1. Get to know a person with special needs.

Do yourself a favor and spend a day with a person with special needs. I’d bet my life savings that you will walk away with the biggest smile on your face and a happy heart. I have been blessed with the opportunity to volunteer with people with special needs since high school. Every single amazing person I have had the pleasure otoknow has left a lasting imprint on my heart. They have taught me true unconditional love, the power of a smile, and how to stay positive despite all odds.

  1. Gratitude Writes.

Consistently and unfailingly, the happiest people are the grateful ones. We live beautiful lives in which we have much to be thankful for. Whether it is people, experiences, moments, things, places, or memories, we can all find solstice in the positive aspect of gratitude. Taking a few minutes each day to write something that you’re grateful for is a beautiful, meditative way to express yourself. Give it a shot, things will change for the better.

Grateful Blog Post

The best friends I have ever made. I wake up grateful every day because of these amazing people.

Besides poaching an egg (I learned that on the Food Network), The College of Saint Rose has fostered my growth in the experiences that I listed above. Studying abroad, an alternative spring break trip, Friday Knights, working with my buddy Pedro, and recognizing the power of gratitude are all experiences I have had in my three amazing years at Saint Rose. Our school is a treasure chest of resources, so make the most of it!

What do you think?

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