This past year has been the longest one yet. As a reader, you now know my opinions and have learned of my lessons, and perhaps I’ll leave you with the most important one for my last column: You can’t do this alone.

I’ve tried it both ways: Once about a year ago I thought I was too busy with my job here, class and commuting to spend quality time with anyone. It was the worst year of my life. I lost friends, hurt family and stressed myself out to no end.

This year I changed that, and it’s incredible what you can do with the support of others. I’ve not only been able to survive class and The Chronicle, but working as close to full time as possible at an internship since April. I haven’t had a day off since the beginning of that month, and it’s been one of the most incredible times of my life.

So here’s to breaking the college rule that of class, sleep and partying you have to pick two. I’ve learned that with some support, you can do all three, plus more.

I owe so much to the following people. Of course there are many more including my Little Italy family, The Chronicle staff, its advisers, teachers and everyone I’ve interned with, but I couldn’t have done anything without the following people.

Chris: Words can’t express how you’ve helped me through my 75 weeks at the paper. You’re a fantastic boss, mentor and friend. Thank you for helping me each and every week. You always go above and beyond for anyone, an attitude I’ve always been grateful for and hope can one day emulate.

Chrissy: My partner in crime. I adored getting to know you, and I love you. I’ll always remember the jokes, stories (and even a few tears) we shared. Best of luck in NYC—we’re so incredibly proud. But keep in touch, because who else can I ask: “Am I crazy right now?”

The Chronicle staff: To all members, past and present: Thank you for inviting me into your lives. It’s been a privilege working with all of you, and although I can’t wait to finally have my Friday nights free, I’ll always be thinking of you. Best of luck, I know you’ll be amazing!

Whoever decides Columbia’s scholarships: Thank you. When my mom first found out how expensive Columbia was (incidentally after I had sent in my rejection letters to the other colleges I was admitted to), she nearly killed me. The scholarships have kept me here and have allowed me to achieve goals I didn’t think were possible at Columbia. Thank you for proving me wrong with your generosity.

Ally: Meeting you changed my life. From fellow trifecta member to “wife,” you became one of my best friends—and fast. Your kindness, understanding and willingness to text me back at 3 a.m. will never be forgotten. You adopted me into your family of friends and now I can’t imagine life without you.

Matt: You told me I worked more than anyone you knew—and then I took on my internship. Thank you for being (and staying) in my life. Your patience, support and surprises have kept me going these past few weeks especially. The past six months have been incredible, and I hope we have many more.

My brothers: Here’s a secret—I’ve always loved you. Even though we don’t say it (perish the thought of us even hugging), I adore you and am so proud you. That said, every random e-mail or picture message has meant the world to me, especially during the past few weeks. I don’t care if it was another picture of our family’s cats, or you talking about your new big-screen TV—they kept us connected; they kept us family.

Lastly, and most importantly, my mom: You will forever be my hero. Twelve years ago your life turned upside-down, and every day since you’ve slowly made it right again, taking bigger steps each time and impressing me more and more with your accomplishments. I couldn’t have done a fraction of what I’ve achieved without you. I love you.