When I arrived at Bona's, I had no idea how much this place would change my life and help me grow as a person. Coming from the city to Bonaventure was a drastic change and had affected my social life entirely. I didn't want to socialize out of fear and anxiety, and I know what you're thinking, "Then why travel 6 hours away from home?" I wanted to live and experience a new environment, to see what else was out there. Although it did take me some time, I felt the fear and anxiety evaporate into smoke and disappearing into the clouds.

As I went through the years making friends and connecting with the faculty on this campus, I learned that there was truly no place like Bona's. I built a support system that I never wanted to leave behind. I have created memories from taking a chance and signing-up for Intramural Badminton, my partner becoming my best friend and lifeline; to joining my friends at the Warming House mushing cookie dough into a huge heart, and listening to those who have lost a lot but are still fighting; to spending hours in the offices of the Student Success Center talking about homework and receiving guidance about life in general.

Being a part of the Franciscan Center for Social Concerns allows me to remind everyone on why we chose St. Bonaventure, and the significance of this place. What it means to be a Bonas and what it will always mean. Bonaventure has significant memories from its beginning to present and it is because of alumni and current students that this universityis the place to be.