After NOLA

Something was different about the van ride back to New Jersey. Conversation filled the air instead of the silence that accompanied the ride down to NOLA. Looking at the others in my van, I was able to speak to everyone and laugh at what we found common ground in. I felt comfortable which is an emotion that I feel has been lacking a bit in my Bonner interactions. I didn't feel pressured to be anyone but myself, and to be accepted as just that was incredible. I always feel the expectations of others breathing down my neck, but this time I felt those expectations run parallel to my own. The first day back on campus and classes, I have seen a few Bonners and now find that I feel a connection with them automatically. More so than I did before. I believe that the hard work we put in, as well as the fun, cemented the bonds of the freshmen class. We are a group of very different personalities, but this trip overall has shown how necessary each person in. Now, it is time to continue another great semester of service and spending time with friends.