The end of the year has a tendency to creep up on me. Part of that is the fog that many of us find ourselves in. We’re so tired that we can’t quite figure out where we are in time.

But I also believe that, as the adviser of The Prowl, tends to ignore the end of the year because it means it’s time to say goodbye for good to my seniors. And no matter how long I’ve known these seniors, I always feel a real sense of sadness.

This is especially true this year as I prepare to say goodbye to three very unique, very special seniors: Bailey, Tashaun and Taylor.

You three seniors have brought three distinct personalities to the class and to their writing, and I will truly miss all of you.

Taylor, I will miss your personability, your attention to deadlines and your eye rolls at Bailey.

Tashaun, I will miss your in-depth analyses of professional sports, your hearty laugh at bad comedies and your understated but very quick wit.

Bailey, I will miss your tardy passes, your irritation, your annoyance, your shout of “Lane!” and — just so you don’t think I’ll only remember the sour Bailey — your laugh. I’ve come to know you the best as I’ve now taught you four semesters in a row, and I am proud of the person you are. Thank you for letting me have a little stake in that.

Next year, you three are going on very disparate paths, but I am certain that you all three will be successful. I am proud of you all, proud of what you have done despite any obstacles thrown your way and proud of where you are going.

I thank you for making me laugh, making me smile, making me roll my eyes and making me a part of your respective journeys.