The alarm clock went off at 4:30 A.M. on December 21st and it was a surreal feeling knowing that after four months I was going home for Christmas break. Fellow victory scholar Tiffany Corselli and I packed our last things and took a taxi to Dublin Airport and went our separate ways. Once I boarded the plane it was finally starting to sink in that I was going home. I couldn’t help but reflect on all of the great memories and experiences that I had in the first semester. The plane ride seemed like it was an eternity, as it was the first time I had ever been away from home for an extended period of time. I was really anxious to see family and friends, which made the seven hour flight seem like twelve. The plane finally landed in Newark Airport around 11:30 A.M. and I was officially home for break.
It was an eventful and at times chaotic 10 days while I was home as I tried my best to see everyone I possibly could before heading back. I was able to see some friends I hadn’t seen since graduation and some family that I had not seen since last Christmas. My parents celebrated their 25th anniversary and renewed their vows and two of my close friends got engaged. Being home with my family was especially nice for Christmas and we got to take our annual matching pajama picture (shown above). I also received a championship ring from Saint Peter’s to commemorate our MAAC Championship last season. However the best part about being home was surprising my grandparents. I am extremely close with them and they had no clue that I was going to be home for Christmas. Unfortunately we had some technical difficulties and I couldn’t get the moment on video.
As great as it was to be home and see family and friends, I am extremely excited to be back at Ulster. I cannot wait to continue this journey and get back into our community outreach programs with coaching and eHoops. Of course none of this would be possible without our great sponsors, so thank you again to Sport Changes Life, The Rory Foundation, and Aer Lingus.
