Missing Maddy

Even though I saw Maddy last night, I already miss her. I am so sad that I will not see her tonight. This week, she is in New York City taking photos and will later attend the Public Relations Society of America ICON conference in Washington. I am so proud of her and the opportunities she has earned. Her energy and humor make campus more manageable. 

Maddy is one of the first people I turn to when I need to talk or ask a question. She understands me in ways most people do not. We bond over busy schedules, frustrating people and small challenges. We complain about minor setbacks and then celebrate wins. We share advice, offer encouragement and sometimes just vent. Everyone needs someone who can do that, someone who makes the day easier to handle. It is also comforting to have a friend in college who is as passionate about her goals as you are. Maddy pushes me to do my best while reminding me to advocate for others. She inspires me to think beyond myself and take action that makes a difference. I notice the way she balances her own work with helping those around her and it motivates me to do the same.

She also encourages me to take on opportunities I might hesitate to try. Every executive position I have applied for and every board I have joined happened with her support. She believes in me when I struggle to believe in myself. Her guidance is steady and practical. I can rely on her for advice or simply a listening ear. That balance between guidance and space is something I appreciate, especially when she is away. I also notice the small ways she makes campus life smoother, from helping plan events to checking in on friends. Those actions remind me why having someone like her matters.

I am very grateful that her little sister now attends Ohio Northern University. Even when Maddy is away, I still get some of that Todorovich energy on campus but it is not the same. Maddy is the person I go to for questions, quick check-ins and brief vent sessions. Even short absences feel longer than they should. 

I look forward to her return. I cannot wait to see her, pick up our routines and wear our matching Halloween costumes. Maddy, if you are reading this, I cannot wait to hear about everything when you get back and catch up on everything I missed.

Aggie, please don't take her away from me again :(