To be honest, I might never be able fully understand the series of events that lead to my introduction to the Bearcat family. From the time I graduated from "Le Lycee Albert Camus (LAC)", a French school in Guinea, Conakry, to my first day at the University of Cincinnati Clermont College, everything still remains a blur. From having to move and leave my family behind at the young age of 18 to transitioning from French to English studies, my life has always felt like a wild roller coaster ride. 

In a weird way, I have absolutely enjoyed every moment of it. I have been able to learn so much in my short life span than most people do in an entire lifetime. The University of Cincinnati has been another milestone in my life. Being the first member of my family to attend it has been both an honor and a privilege for me. Although it came with its own set of obstacles and challenges, I have always been ready to face them all head on. 

After graduating from the University of Cincinnati Clermont College with an associate degree in Applied Sciences, with concentration in both Computer Networking Systems (CNS) and Computer System Support Technology (CSST), I decided to continue my education by pursuing a Bachelor degree in Information Technology (IT), specifically in a Cybersecurity track, at the University of Cincinnati's Uptown campus. Soon after my admission into the program, I was offered the opportunity to join the Honors Program. With no doubt in my mind, I agreed to join. So far, it has been incredibly rewarding. 

I believe that my first year in the Honors Program is arguably the most critical. I consider it to be the foundation building year . It is the time when I have the opportunity to set my goals and the path that I will follow for the next few years. So far, my journey at the University of Cincinnati has allowed me to explore several areas that have helped me grow both as a person and a student, whether it be through my involvement in campus activities, professional development or more. 

With all of this is in mind, I can easily say that this year has been one of the most interesting and challenging year of my college life and experience. From the friends I have made to the mentors that I have been fortunate enough to receive guidance from, from the groups I have been involved with to the activities I have participated in, I can honestly say that it has all come together beautifully as I look back on them. Although I had to deal with some speed bumps, most of which could have been avoided if I am being honest, this academic year has been great a learning experience for me. I am so glad that I get to experience all of this at UC. 

The University of Cincinnati is vibrant. The campus, surrounding communities, ethnicities, athletic programs and more are all, in their own way, unique. Every memory I have made this year does nothing more than serve as an amplifier to the vibrant image I already have of the school. Writing this reflection has allowed me to get excited for the two more to come.