Coming Full Circle

I was rooting for Chelsea yesterday. As an Arsenal fan, I would normally not. Even for neutrals, it was difficult supporting a team bankrolled by a Russian oil tycoon. They are not a glamour side, but in fact are the worst Chelsea team for years.

Nonetheless, it is their story that moved me. Their triumph over two of Europe's best teams in Barcelona and Bayern is a testament to human spirit and teamwork. They showed that faith indeed can move mountains. A lesser side would have capitulated a long while ago, but they stood together and with a bit of luck, defeated the odds to scale the pinnacle.

For many of the old guard, such as Didier Drogba, Petr Cech, and Frank Lampard, the final was the culmination of years of hard toil. They had gone through seven managers since Jose Mourinho, but time and time again the European Cup eluded them, often in dramatic circumstances. But they persevered and deserve the fruits of their work, especially Drogba and Cech's outstanding performances.

Yesterday, I attended the Joint minority bar judicial internship program's orientation for this year's intern class. I remember taking part just a year ago as a student intern in last year's class. At that time, I was like the others yesterday - mystified about the law but eager to learn. This year, I have come back as an alum and am glad to see the new faces who will continue to make the program strong.

My experience last summer has led me to where I am now. Through the program, I met Yang and learned about AABANY. I joined the association before the summer and have actively participated in its programs, such as helping to plan this year's program. I also met Emily, with whom I share a similar background. That led me to working with her at Success and becoming interested in education reform.

The journey remains long and there are many opportunities and challenges ahead. I will board the next train tomorrow. Where that leads me is unknown, but I must be the conductor of my own route. As I close one chapter for another, I will not forget the journey thus far - everything that I have learned and everyone whom I have met. One day, I hope to find myself like the old guard of Chelsea yesterday, holding aloft a grand prize after years of hard work. For now, I content myself with knowing that my investment last summer in the JMBJIP is coming to a full circle.