Being involved in OU Cousin’s has been a wonderful four years. I was a shy freshman when I first started, and then I joined the Cousin’s Advisory Board my junior year officially. 

This year, the year flew by. I can’t believe I graduate next Friday, the 15th. OU Cousin’s has been my rock whenever I needed it. From weekly meetings that we did in the beginning of the semester to bi-weekly meetings once we had a chance to breathe. 

From events I helped promote such as matching party to events even I was surprised by (like the BBQ). I can’t recall a single event that I missed on campus other than Zumba. Game nights, karaoke, matching parties, and even the picnic that we hosted to end off the semester. 

One of my greatest achievements (other than growing outside of my shell to become a bit more extroverted. Which, according to MBTI I went from 100% introverted to 96% introverted. Improvements!). I helped gather sponsors for our biggest events of the year, which is OU Cousin’sFriendsgiving and OU Cousin’s BBQ. The food is always our biggest expense, so being able to get that off of our plate was a huge relief, and I am glad I taught others how to do the same. 

Attending the events as a member of Cousin’s Advisory Board allowed me to see connections being fostered in real time, and it allowed me to mingle with those who might’ve felt left out. It’s a nice perspective, as I was one of those who felt like that and was greeted by old CAB members. 

I cannot trade the experience for the world, and I am going to miss being in OU Cousin’s and creating events for all the new international and domestic students. 

Best,

Destiny Monroe