Franceazca: A look back at 2014

2014 has definitely been a whirlwind of a year for me. From transitioning from undergrad life onto the real working world, I think this past year has been the most fruitful and exciting thus far. I've met new friends and lost in touch with a few, but despite all of the ups and downs there is just so much to be thankful about. So I guess this blog post is going to be a little wrap-up/'year in review' type of thing to remind me that despite the rough patches, I've accomplished more that I could ever imagine and I have successfully surrounded myself with the most supportive group of people. (I know, I know, this is such a cheesy post... very uncharacteristic of me, but whatever)

So here's a look back at 2014 (highlights of the year, and things I've learned along the way)

Having a stable career prospect (and also a bit of financial stability)

At the age of 22 and as a senior in college, being given a job offer in an industry that I actually have interest in is the best feeling in the world. Going from intern to associate in a matter of months was probably the most accomplished I've ever felt in a while It also gives me so much relief that after graduation, I won't have to fear being unemployed and be enveloped by the stress that comes with the potentially difficult post-college job hunt. I am very happy at where I am right now. Being able to pay for my own bills, buy my own groceries, shop for my own stuff... it's been great. I guess I had a pretty darn good introduction to adulthood this year.

A growing fervor to learn new skills

This year, I found myself wanting to dip my feet in so many things. I've also discovered that despite being a very impatient person, I need to take the time to learn in order to pursue certain endeavors. I went ahead and taught myself new software, typography, elements of graphic design, and even tried to take a stab at web design.

Meeting and getting to work with a new group of people

This year meant a new job, and the beginning of my senior year of college. In the past 12 months, I've had the opportunity to work and collaborate with people in the workplace, and also in a school organization that I recently took part in as part of its executive board (I joined Rutgers University's Public Relations Student Society of America, also known as PRSSA). This meant that I've exposed myself to a wonderful group of professionals, young professionals, and students. It's definitely been a wonderful experience and I continue to look forward to working with the same people this year.

Seven years with the love of my life

2014 marks my seventh anniversary with my boyfriend. We spent our 7th thanksgiving, christmas, and new years this year. I'm glad and always thankful to have my boyfriend by my side, and look forward to many more years with the most amazing guy ever.

Adulthood

Yes... this. I think 2014 just reaffirmed that I am now an adult and have to deal with adult things (I mean, I turned 22 this year soooo). Like my big girl job, my boyfriend moving to Austin, TX to pursue his professional endeavors (which I'm obvi super proud about, but also a bit sad about), the idea of graduating in May, and a lot of serious life-changing things. That being said, I learned to leave the 'party hard college student' mentality and move onto the 'happy hour with co-workers after work' mentality. lol, if that even makes sense.

Finally taking this blog a bit more seriously

I always try every single year to take this blog seriously, but 2014 was the year when I realized how much I like writing about random shit. It's really a great creative outlet for me.