Another year has come and passed, which is crazy to me. Feels like 2016 just started and it passed by in a flash -- and took many new experiences in its wake. Throughout 2016, I accomplished many things -- I got published and took a freelance writing contract for the first time, I started writing for the Odyssey and became my community's EIC and I also graduated from college!

2016 brought many opportunities and changes to my life that I am very grateful for. I can't wait to see what 2017 has in store -- the good times, the bad and even the boring middle ground. All of it promises change and something I can learn from. In the spirit of New Years, here are my 2017 New Year's resolutions (and let's hope I can actually stick to these):

1. Learn how to drive before the end of March, beginning of April.

2. Get a good job in my field (and not work at McDonald's anymore lol).

3. Save up money more money.

4. Treat myself more often.

5. Travel more, and more often with my boyfriend.

6. Move out with my boyfriend and get our own place.

7. Find out more about myself and learn to grow more into my skin.

8. Be less judgemental and more open to things I don't know.

9. Spend more time with my parents.

10. Do some volunteer work at a local animal shelter.

11. Cherish those close to me, especially since so many people I care about died. this year.

12. Persuade my boyfriend to finally propose to me (we've been dating for almost 6 years!)

13. Pay off a good amount of my student loans.

14. Learn to stop making myself settle for things I don't want just because I don't want to inconvenience others.

15. Try new things more because I often shut them down without even giving it a chance.

16. Read more ACTUAL books -- not PDFs or digital copies. Maybe start a new series.

17. Eat more junk food like potato chips and ice cream because they make me HAPPY.

Just do what makes you happy and fulfilled. Grab 2017 by the horns and it make it your year! Happy New Year!