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UPRM | Life

A letter before we pivot

Keyla Ortiz Ramos Student Contributor, University of Puerto Rico - Mayaguez
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UPRM chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

The act of saying goodbye, whether signifying a brief pause or a permanent separation, is a fundamental human ritual demanding deep acknowledgment. It is the crucial pivot point where we consciously manage the emotions within life’s continuous transitions. We may navigate this moment through careful, thoughtful words, eloquent silence, or expressive, deeply genuine gestures. These deliberate acts are not mere formalities; they are the essential, emotional ceremonies that allow us to process the feelings tied to the change. Saying goodbye offers vital closure for what has definitively passed, while simultaneously preparing and fortifying us for the exciting, unknown path that lies ahead.

As the academic year draws to a close and graduation season looms, in this time synonymous with major life shifts, my heart is full of well wishes and farewells. I speak now to those remarkable individuals who are stepping into the next chapter of their lives, ready to embark on a new adventure. I want to offer my profound and sincere gratitude for the unwavering, genuine friendship and the steadfast support they have generously offered me during our time together.

The accomplishments that await you, alongside the bigger and better things that your talent and drive promise, are a source of immense pride. Even as our physical paths diverge, my dedication to your success remains absolute. I will continue cheering you on from a distance, celebrating every milestone, every victory, and every accomplishment you achieve. Your triumphs are, in a way, shared triumphs for all who know and care for you.

Let this bond of friendship, forged in shared experiences and mutual respect, forever remain strong, pure, and resilient. More than just enduring, may it possess the infinite capacity to continue growing and evolving, adapting to the distance and the changes in our respective lives. May the memories we created be the foundation upon which future connections are built, ensuring that while chapters end, the story of our friendship is far from over.

As they continue on their journey, I remain to complete my own, holding onto the truth that genuine goodbyes are more than just conclusions; they are intricate emotional connections spanning memory and future, bridging loss with hope.

Keyla M. Ortiz Ramos is a writer for the UPRM chapter of Her Campus and a senior at the University of Puerto Rico at MayagĂĽez, where she studies Psychology. She hopes to pursue a career in clinical psychology and later specialize in forensic psychology, while continuing to explore her interests in community and health psychology. She is also committed to advocating for the normalization of mental health care and promoting more equitable access to psychological services, particularly for marginalized and underserved communities.

Outside of Her Campus, Keyla serves as President of the UPRM Chapter of the International Honor Society in Psychology (Psi Chi). She is also a member of the American Psychological Association (APA), the Puerto Rico Psychological Association (APPR), and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). In addition, she serves on the APPR Student Committee, participates in the Runners and Walkers Collective, and volunteers with “Come Colegial,” an initiative dedicated to combating food insecurity within the university community.

Beyond academia, Keyla enjoys reading, painting, playing video games, and watching movies. She is passionate about writing essays, fashion, and—especially—jewelry. She is also a devoted Marvel and literature enthusiast; her favorites include Loki, The Picture of Dorian Gray, and the film Hacksaw Ridge. In her personal life, she values spending time at church and playing with her cats.

With love and passion as her foundation, Keyla is committed to creating safe spaces that cultivate empathy, kindness, self-expression, and knowledge.