2009: At a glance

As I begin the obligatory end-of-2009 post at home in Florida, I can hardly believe how much this year has held. A year ago, I would have never imagined that a year later, I would be where I am -- in a completely different city, hours and miles away from everyone I know and love. 2009, I've found, has been nothing short of pushing myself to the limit, testing my own personal boundaries to find any innate resilience. It's hard to believe that a little over six months ago, I was still in undergrad with little idea that I would have my own D.C. apartment in a few months. And now, as a new D.C. resident, I'm so frequently asked the question, "Why did you move here?" And besides the cliched hope of following my career dreams, I don't have much more of an answer other than, "Why not?" What better time to push yourself and explore the world than in the moments after graduating college, where energy and excitement for the future still pervade your life.

So, now as I look into what 2010 holds, I think I've found the perfect New Year's resolution: To stop over-romanticizing the next steps in my life and enjoy where I am. Or, in the words of Ida Scott Taylor:

"One day at a time--this is enough. Do not look back and grieve over the past, for it is gone; and do not be troubled about the future, for it has not yet come. Live in the present, and make it so beautiful that it will be worth remembering."

Hope everyone enjoys their last few moments of 2009!

Football, friends and Florida

This past weekend I headed to UCF for homecoming and I have to say, it was so surreal being back as an alumna. It was only about 6 months ago when I was last there, as a student, but so much has changed since I left. I'm feeling a little old, not gonna lie.

But regardless, it was an absolutely amazing weekend being reunited with my best friends. And to make it even better, the homecoming game was seriously one of the best games I think I've ever been to. For the first time ever we beat a top 25 ranked team. I know, I know, it sounds a little ridiculous but being a relatively young school, it was a glorious moment for my Knights!

Roomies/neighbors

Game time!

A beautiful win

Our lovely, new sorority house

New York State of Mind

My final spring break is nearly over! It's hard to believe, but I definitely made the most of it.

With the UCF Ad Club, I traveled up to the Big Apple to explore the city, an Ad/PR mecca. Although I have been to NYC before, I have to say that this trip was truly an eye-opener for me. Sometimes I find myself getting a little swept up in my dreams of becoming Carrie Bradshaw that I forget the need to be pragmatic. We met with a few UCF alum in the area as well as industry execs and they helped us to truly understand what the city is about and how the industry works.

Exhausted from traveling, I just wanted to share a few photos before I go relax in the warm Sunshine State weather. :)

Here are a few of my favorite moments, from Central Park to the Today Show, I loved every minute!







xoxo
-ams