On Growth:
On Growth: Academics, Career, Health, & Faith
As 2025 begins, I look back on a year full of learning, challenges, and progress. Reflecting on our successes is critical, especially during times when we might feel like a year has been quieter or less eventful. I’ve felt that way at times, but in truth, 2024 was filled with significant milestones and personal growth. From finishing degrees to changing my health and reflecting on faith, 2024 was a year of important shifts:
Academics: Finishing One Chapter & Opening Another
This year, I took a break from blogging and social media for several months to focus on completing the final courses for my Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, graduating summa cum laude in June. The graduate committee approved the start of my Master’s program in Communications at Southern New Hampshire University before conferral, and as I head into my third term already, I’m preparing for a course on Law and Ethics.
In addition to my formal business studies, I’ve started taking standalone music composition courses at Berklee College of Music. These classes have allowed me to focus on classical music composition, my first love. I’m particularly drawn to the works of Franz Liszt and have been dedicating much of my time to studying and practicing his etudes. This has been both inspiring and challenging, reigniting my appreciation for the technical precision and emotional depth required in this art form. Once I’ve finished my Master’s program, I hope to pursue music composition more formally and continue exploring the richness of classical traditions.
Career:
On the professional front, I was selected for Aon’s Advocacy Experience (for women), a leadership development program that I’m excited to complete in 2025. It’s an opportunity to grow as a leader and learn from others, and I’m excited to see how it further shapes my careeer path with the company.
Health: Small Changes = Big Impact
Health has been another area of focus. Since late July, I’ve lost 55 pounds, a change that has been both challenging and rewarding. Improving hypermobility dramatically means that my goals are about more than just weight loss—building strength and improving overall function are crucial. Going into 2025, I want to keep prioritizing my health and continuing with the progress I’ve made.
Faith: Searching & Steadying
The topic of faith remains complicated, but I’m grateful for the grounding presence of the Catholic Church. I’ve come to levelset with myself about the aspects of Church teachings that have not modernized fast enough for our world: I firmly believe that a woman’s right to choose is her own, and birth control with universal access to contraceptives is non-negotiable. I recognize the reality of systematic oppression. I advocate for women deserving the right to lead in the Church. These views do not make me less Catholic, but instead allow me to debate the social pitfalls of the Church, and stand passionately apart from those who justify church teachings to underscore their deeply held fears, misconceptions, lack of diverse experience, and hateful behaviors. I’ve learned that I can stand firm in my convictions while embracing the faith’s spiritual foundation that sustains me during times of doubt, which has provided me with both clarity and resilience.
Hobbies: Curating Style & Creativity
Outside of academics and career, I’ve found immense joy in my hobbies, particularly alternative fashion and Smart Dolls. Over the years, I’ve refined my wardrobe into a highly curated collection that reflects my love for Lolita fashion. It’s been a process of intentionality, focusing on pieces that bring joy and resonate deeply with my sense of style.
Expanding into the Smart Doll world has been equally rewarding. These beautifully crafted dolls from Japan celebrate diversity in background and physical traits, aligning with values I hold dear. Incorporating them into my creative pursuits, from fashion design to photography, has opened up new avenues for expression. Together, these hobbies allow me to blend artistry and individuality in ways that feel fulfilling and inspiring.
Looking Forward:
As I step into 2025, I’m hopeful about what’s to come: diving deeper into my studies, growing professionally, and continuing to focus on my health and faith, deeply committed to making the most of the year ahead.
Thank you for following along.
(…and I love you.)
