As the leaves begin to turn colors, and the seasons change, I find myself reflecting on how I want to make the most out of my last year in this incredible movement. For myself, and the other 70,000+ teens in BBYO, kickoff season reminds us how sacred our BBYO communities are after a restful summer spent away. As I enter this new year, as a senior, I want to make the most out of my final year. I know countless other AZA’s and B’nai B’rith Girls around the order are feeling the same. BBYO has provided thousands of teens with a safe space to be unapologetically proud of our Jewish identities. In this new year here are my top three ways to avoid the senior slump and stay involved in our chapter and regional community. 

1. Say “Yes!” to Everything:
   Step outside your comfort zone and say yes to opportunities you might normally pass up. I want to push each and every teen out there to attend a new regional program, help plan a chapter event, or meet someone new at a convention. Your senior year is the perfect time to make memories, strengthen friendships, and discover new ways to contribute to your BBYO community.
   
   
2. Make More Meaningful Relationships:
   Some of the most meaningful parts of BBYO are the friendships and connections we build along the way. I want to encourage you to make an effort to reconnect with chapter members after the summer, get to know younger teens, and strengthen the bonds that make your community feel like home. This incredible movement has gifted me with some of my best friends and you should never take your time with them in BBYO for granted in your final year.
   
   
3. Leave YOUR Legacy
   Being a senior means YOU have the opportunity to shape BBYO for the teens who will come after you. I hope that you will find a younger member who reminds you a little of yourself and share the lessons you have learned with them. I want you to mentor younger members and encourage new leaders to step up. Your impact on BBYO does not end when your term or senior year does; the community you help build can continue to thrive long after you graduate.

As many seniors across the Order enter their final year in this sacred movement, I want to encourage each and every one of you to take in every moment and truly live in every experience that this movement gives you.