These past 4 years have gone by so much faster than I ever could’ve imagined. As I reminisce on our 7 hour bus ride home I can only help to look back and see the incredible ways that God worked in my life.

People ask me why I chose UMass, and I simply don’t know. It’s weird to think that God orchestrated all of this because I hardly had a relationship with God before college. I knew who God was but I didn’t know Jesus. I didn’t know I was following Jesus when I came here but He met me here. And my experiences at UMass only drew me closer to Him. It’s funny how God works, isn’t it?

He brought me two of the best friends I could ever ask for who encourage me in my faith everyday and He’s brought many other unbelievable friends into my life. He blessed me with an incredible family in my team and many opportunities that many other people don’t get a chance to experience, like 3 conference championships and 3 NCAA tournament appearences. Although my expectations may have been different coming into college, I wouldn’t change anything because I know that God has a plan for me and this is all part of His plan.

I’ve grown in ways I didn’t even know were possible. I’ve learned to love the unlovable with grace and sincerity. I’ve learned to look for the best in people. I’ve learned that it’s not all about me. I’ve learned that winning isn’t everything. I’ve learned that it is important to go to class, even if you don’t like that class. I’ve learned that cake isn’t for breakfast. I’ve learned that vulnerability breeds vulnerability. I’ve learned that Emily Hazard always has the candy on away trips. I’ve learned how and when to address conflict. I’ve learned that field hockey doesn’t define me. I’ve learned that God loves me NO MATTER WHAT. I’ve learned to look to God through everything I do, good or bad and that He is ultimately in charge.

The song Oceans came on as I was writing this and I realized how true it was to my journey with field hockey the past 4 years..

You called me out upon the waters, the great unknown where feet may fail, and there I find You in the mystery, in oceans deep, my faith will stand

And I will call upon Your name, and keep my eyes above the waves, when oceans rise, my soul will rest in your embrace, for I am Yours and You are mine.

Your grace abounds in deepest waters, Your sovereign hand will be my guide, where feet may fail and fear surrounds me, You’ve never failed and You won’t stop now.

–Oceans by Hillsong United

I’m not sure what God has in store for me after I graduate but I know it’s going to be great and I can’t wait to continue serving such an amazing God.

-Katie