This past year has brought unexpected changes many of us are continuing to struggle to accept. The New Year can look different to many people. One thing that most have in common are resolutions. People set hopes and goals which help to determine the tone of their year. 

“My goal is to be more open to people,” freshman Rebekah Chiesi said. 

Chiesi looks back over the previous year and recalls some of the hardships faced.

“I think the worst thing about 2020 was how many people died. Almost 300,000 people have died from Covid-19. And, it’s scary how many people are endangering others by partying and not wearing a mask,” Chiesi said.

Some like to forgive and forget, and start the year off fresh. While others try to rectify the bad in this new year. 

“I hope there are fewer riots and victims of police brutality, get justice and for their names to be heard such as Elijah McClain, George Floyd, Rayshard Brooks, Daniel Prude, Breonna Taylor, Atatiana Jefferson, and so much more. The least we could do is say their names and acknowledge police brutality,” Chiesi said.

Chiesi is looking forward to gaining some normalcy and putting COVID behind her. The virtual schooling situation students are currently in is not ideal and many do not want to see it continue into 2021.

“I, and many others, would probably go insane,” Chiesi said.

Focusing on the positive, Chiesi is taking this opportunity to save money for a phone she wishes to someday buy herself.

“I hope to raise enough money to buy myself a phone. I also hope to be able to donate money every month,” Chiesi said. 

Although Chiesi has high hopes, she recognizes that this new year may not be much different from the one before.

“This year will hopefully be better. But, I wouldn’t bet on anything,” Chiesi said. 

For many, last year stripped away hope. A fresh start is what most need. While a clean slate is not guaranteed, Chiesi is trying to begin this year with high spirits and a light heart. Taking in stride what life throws at her, she is walking with her head held high, a smile on her face, and fingers crossed.