I’m finally finished with my Master’s program. I had my last two classes on Monday and Tuesday, and I’ve spent the last few days saying goodbye to teachers, classmates and friends. Everyone in my graduating class keeps announcing on Facebook that they’re a “Master,” which seems weird…Until I realize that technically, I’m a “Master,” too.

When I look back at the last year, I can’t believe how much happened. Since I moved to Chicago, I cut off half my hair, made an impulsive trip to France, traveled to Madison to learn about ice cream science, and learned how to navigate the city. I made friends that I want to keep for the rest of my life, and worked with teachers that helped me become a better journalist and writer. But a culmination of everything–the people I met, choices I made, and lessons I learned–are the things that will help me moving forward.

For my final project for my photojournalism class, I shadowed a local baker, Dennis. Dennis makes bread in his basement, and sells his creations at the Evanston Farmers’ Market with his wife. I highly recommend that you stop by the market and buy a loaf if you’re ever in Evanston on a Saturday morning. (Word to the wise: They also sell amazing cinnamon rolls that are handmade on Saturday morning and still warm when you bite into them. But they usually sell out by 8:30 or 9, so get there early.)

I loved watching Dennis make bread, and smelling the loaves as they came out of the oven. The basement was hot, but I barely noticed–and I think Dennis forgets most of the time, too. It made me realize that when you love doing something, all the little things seem to fade away. In the future, I want to incorporate the same passion and drive I saw when I watched Dennis make bread.

I was glad I got the opportunity to meet Dennis, and who knows? Maybe one day I’ll have my own baking operation, too.