I’m graduating soon, and while I’m excited for the next chapter of my life, it’s sad to be leaving somewhere I feel so happy.

1. Conventions - A whole weekend with your Jewish friends was sometimes all you needed to recover from a rough week at school. It’s so fun to get to tune out the outside world and focus on BBYO for a few days.

2. Board - While being on board was really stressful at times, it’s so fun to help lead your chapter. I’m going to miss being a leader, along with helping others as they serve their first terms.

3. Shabbat services - I personally LOVE Shabbat (and Havdalah) services because they’re such a good time. Singing and dancing with my friends at convention and at Perlman are some of my favorite memories from BBYO.

4. All of my swag - I have so much stuff from these past 4 years in my room and basement, and it’s definitely going to feel very empty without all of it. I’m sad to be giving all of these memories away, but I know the people I give them to will be so happy.

5. Jewish connection - I’m one of the only Jews in my town, so having an outlet with all of these Jewish people is so special to me. I’m going to participate in Hillel in college, and that’s possibly only because of BBYO.

6. Getting to be part of international clubs - I’ve met some of my best friends through branching out and getting involved with On Demand. Press Corps has also been so memorable and has definitely impacted what I want to do with my future, which is journalism.

7. The staff - Personally, I believe Wisconsin Region has the best staff in the international order. They’re all incredible, from our director, Yonas, to every chapter advisor.

8. Cheer circles - There is nothing comparable to screaming “Identity” with all of your friends at convention. Even though I usually end up losing my voice after, cheer circles are one of the best moments for connection.

9. My friends - BBYO has brought me the best friends I could ever ask for, both regionally and internationally. I can’t believe all of us Wisconsin seniors in my region are going to be so far apart, and that I’m still going to live at least a 2 hour flight from my closest Perlman friends.

10. My amazing chapter - I’m lucky to be part of a chapter full of the most amazing BBGs, Ahavah BBG #2064. Programs with them are always such a delight, and we have such a strong friendship within the chapter. I’m going to miss seeing all of them, but I’m excited to watch them grow.

BBYO has shaped how I’ll live my life in the future. It’s definitely going to feel like an empty hole in my life, but I can’t wait for what’s next. Hold on to what you have in BBYO, because the 4 years go by so quickly.