As I finish up my final semester at KU Law, I find that Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on my 2.5 years here and think about what I am thankful for.
I’m thankful for all the lessons, and I’m not talking about the classes. I’m talking about learning the hard way to make studying important, but not the most important. I’m talking about learning that sleep is every bit as crucial as preparing for a presentation. I’m talking about learning how to read and really absorb the information. I’m talking about learning to live in the present and enjoy every second.
I’m thankful for the people I’ve met and the relationships that I have developed. My best friend and maid of honor. Mentors that I will feel comfortable calling for advice for years to come. Friends and peers that I know I can rely on throughout my career. Role models who give me plenty to aspire toward.
Samantha Wagner, left, and Alex Pierce, L’18.
I’m thankful for the experience. I have experienced what it is like to be in a variety of areas of law. I have experienced an amazing graduate program. I have experienced success, support and encouragement. I have the experience to recover quickly and gracefully from failure and loss. I have the experience to discuss difficult topics with people from every walk of life, regardless of our different views or stances.
I’m thankful for the strong foundation that KU Law has provided me with. I feel prepared to take the next steps as December rolls around and I get ready to leave. I’m thankful that I have people in my corner, but that I also have the knowledge and technical skill to make my own way. I’m thankful that “I’m at KU Law” opens doors and starts pleasant conversations.
And as sad as my last day will be, I’m thankful that it is almost over! I am ready to start the next chapter. I am thankful that I’m wrapping up my last papers, preparing for my last exam and giving my last student presentations, all in the next couple of weeks. I’m thankful that I won’t be counting on those student loans to keep me afloat for six months at a time. I’m thankful that I won’t feel the same level of guilt as I binge-watch Netflix on the weekends. I’m thankful that I won’t be the stereotypical stressed-out law student any more (although I may miss the excuse for my stress levels). I’m thankful that I made it through.
I’m thankful that my time at KU Law is coming to a close, but I know I will cry as I leave Green Hall for the last time because I am even more thankful for my time here.
— Samantha Wagner is a 3L from Paola and a KU Law Student Ambassador.