Two Years In The Making: A Recap of My Year at UMass Amherst

Content

Kimberly enjoying the Durfee Conservatory

Now that the 2023-2024 academic year is over, and I’m finally settling into the rhythm of summer, I’ve been able to take some much needed time to reflect on my experience. To give myself space to acknowledge all that happened, and let it shape my personal plan for next year. Looking back, I am filled with a sense of pride, accomplishment, and gratitude for the incredible journey I have embarked upon. When I graduated high school in 2022, I had a clear path laid out before me – a four-year journey culminating in a 2026 graduation. However, life had other plans. Thanks to AP classes and credits from summer courses, I found myself in a position where I will be able to graduate early. After careful consideration and guidance from my advisors, I changed my graduation year to 2025. This decision brought both challenges and rewards.

Growing and Getting Active

With this new timeline in mind, my junior year became a whirlwind of activity and growth. I threw myself into the search for a summer internship, recognizing the value it could bring to my early career. I attended career fairs, engaged in informational interviews, and had coffee chats with professionals in my fields of interest. I honed my interview skills and made the most of every opportunity for professional development, including attending conferences. My hard work paid off when I secured a summer internship at a company that truly excites me, a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication.

But my growth this past year went far beyond my professional aspirations. I immersed myself in campus life, joining new clubs and organizations that aligned with my passions. I found a welcoming home in the UMass Student Government Association, where I discovered a group of like-minded individuals who shared my commitment to making a positive impact in our campus community through student-led projects. Additionally, I became a part of UMass Women into Leadership (UWiL), a transformative program that equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a leader in public service. Through the UWiL program, I was fortunate to be paired with an amazing mentor, who is also a UMass Amherst alumni. She offered me guidance and grace as she shared her post-UMass experiences with me, which were closely aligned with my own goals. 

Our weekly chats became a source of inspiration and motivation, teaching me the importance of mentorship and being a proactive mentee.

Slowing Down for Life

Amidst the hustle, I made time for the joys of college life. I went to the UMass Fashion Organization’s fashion show, proudly supporting my friend who walked the runway, and I watched the solar eclipse on that beautiful day in April with my friends over sushi and cheesecake. I even ventured out of my comfort zone and tried skiing for the first time at Berkshire East Mountain Resort during UMass Spring Fest.

Kimberly enjoying her first time skiing at Berkshire East

Late night heart-to-hearts with roommates, spontaneous adventures in downtown Northampton, and countless laughs shared over dining hall meals taught me that some of life's greatest lessons are learned outside the classroom. 

The relationships I fostered and memories I made served as a constant reminder to embrace the present and soak up every opportunity for connection and growth.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

This year has been a chapter of exponential growth for me. I tackled challenges that pushed me to excel academically like never before. I deepened my friendships on campus, cherishing every moment we spent together. When my family visited, showing them around Western Mass was a heartwarming experience — now that I'm used to the region. I discovered new passions, hobbies, and talents, and recognized areas for personal growth. I created new habits and let go of some old ones. This year tested my beliefs and helped me evolve, guiding me toward a deeper understanding of myself. Venturing beyond my comfort zone, sometimes by choice and sometimes with a gentle push, led to beautiful and unexpected outcomes that enriched my journey.