How am I a junior in college? Time has been flying by, which I think is a good thing; it means I’m having fun. Along with all this fun there has also been a lot of work. This last semester was especially hectic and definitely the most challenging yet. As I begin to take higher level classes, I find the content to be more challenging but all the more interesting as well. I have enjoyed rising to the challenge and continue to find myself invested in my academics.

As of recently, one of the biggest changes to my studies has been the introduction of computer science. I am still a cognitive neuroscience major, but I have begun focusing on the field of computational methods that surround neuroscience. This has led me to taking a number of computer science courses that are out of my comfort zone. This transition has of course brought its own slate of struggles. Computer science is not known to be an easy subject, and learning to code has forced me to entirely adapt how I approach my work. Despite this, I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to dive into a whole new area of study in my junior year. The flexibility to change my goals and pivot in new directions is an amazing privilege.

As time goes on, coming home for winter break becomes a stranger and stranger experience. My friends and I are getting older, moving away, finding jobs, and many are beginning to fashion lives outside the bounds of Martha’s Vineyard. My time on the island is also numbered. There will only be so many more winter and summer breaks before I begin to start a new chapter of my life somewhere else. In the face of all this, I am left feeling grateful. I’m grateful to have grown up in such a wonderful place full of wonderful people. MVYouth is a part of this network of support that has allowed me and many others to pursue their hopes and dreams. I hope to always be a part of this network myself, supporting the future of the island’s youth.