They always say goodbye is the hardest part. Frankly, I’m surprised that in my college career no teacher has endeavored to explain to me who “they” are and how they know such things. While this may be the case, I have learned a thing or two at Murray State.

I’ve learned to be a student and an opportunist. I’ve learned to step out of my comfort zone and use my skills to make something better.

I’ve learned that it’s important to take care of yourself to be healthy and have peace of mind.

I’ve learned that things don’t typically go as planned. I’ve learned there are good days and there are bad days.

There are days I want to cry hysterically, and days where I can’t stop smiling.

I’ve learned the best days are the unscheduled days, and the most rewarding days are those where I see my hard work in print each week.

“They” say goodbye is the hardest part, but I don’t know the reality of that because I’m not saying goodbye to everything.

In fact, I would say I’m taking it all with me.

Though this is my last column I will write for The Murray State News, I’m taking the work I’ve done here with me, packed neatly in a portfolio.

I’ll turn in my final projects in the next month or so but I’m taking the skills I’ve developed with me as well.

I’m leaving Murray State with a better understanding of what it means to be a student, a journalist and a better person.

I’ve met some incredible people who may not be embarking on the journey into the next chapter of my life, but they will always remain close to me, and with today’s technology only a phone call, text message or Snapchat away.

My experience at Murray State is close to over. I guess this means I’ll never know who “they” are and or why “they” believe that goodbye is the hardest part, because I’m taking this experience and the memories with me.

So this is “see you later,” guys. I’m not into goodbyes.

Column by Hunter Harrell, Features Editor