We all gathered in the common room of Chamberlain Hall and reminisced, speaking with smiles stretched across our faces and kinetic hand gestures painting our stories with extra detail. Some of us wouldn’t be coming back, and so there were trembling lips, teary eyes and long, unashamed hugs. Handshakes, hand waves and promises to keep in touch no matter what.

Those of us who were not yet in danger of leaving the program thought aloud about how we would handle our own sad goodbyes when the time came, while those new to the program spoke in weary or excited tones about their experiences and what they were looking forward to.

Some of us lingered into the small hours of the night and played games or arm-wrestled or had deep conversations, until there were only a handful remaining. Slowly, we trickled out to our respective rooms, slowing our steps so that it took just a little bit longer.

With that, the residency is ended. In the morning, some will have gone before I even thought of waking, while I will see others in various states of packing and rushing to eat breakfast as I load my own things into my car after I eat.

This has been an amazing residency, even though some of my best Stonecoast friends are in Ireland right now. I was given so much good feedback on my work that I really think I can shape up at least one of my pieces enough for publication. On top of that, I will be working on my third-semester project, which is really exciting to me. On top of that, I made some new, amazing friends….am now the MC for next semester’s readings and Follies….and I’ve created some lasting memories that I will cherish forever.

Be well and I wish you safe travels, my Stonecoast friends. To those who’ve graduated, know that most of you have helped me in times of need and confusion, and that won’t be forgotten. I wish you the best of luck in your lives and future endeavors.

To those who danced with me, sweaty as I was, thank you for indulging me in my craziness.

Faculty: You amaze and inspire me. Nancy, I can’t wait to work with you. Elizabeth and Theodora, thank you for your insights and kindness and enthusiasm. You all make me feel like a writer.

Dorothy: You have been amazing. Your trip to Brunswick mid-residency rejuvenated me and had me smiling. I’m a lucky man.

Now begins the next chapter, and much work is to be done. Wish me luck! (Good luck to you all, as well)

~

Joseph Carro is a third semester student in the Popular Fiction concentration. You can read his movie and book reviews on his Average Joe Review Blog.