When I walked onto campus to start my last year of college, I became increasingly aware of how my life will be very different in one short year. At first, a shift from full time student to full time job seems like it will only be amazing. No homework, having an income, and a new city full of new experiences. However, it also struck me that once I start working, summer break will be a thing of the past. My mind started buzzing with all of the things I should do to make this last summer count: backpack through Europe, spend some time at the pool, join a summer intramural team, etc. All of them sounded like they'd be fun, but then I remembered hearing about Illini 4000. I began dreaming of being a part of such an amazing group of people who work hard year round to pull off this huge philanthropic endeavor.After five months of meetings, training, fundraising, and bonding, it all still feels surreal at times. Now that it is warm enough to ride my bike outside, my dream is finally feeling like reality. I'm sure it won't be fully tangible until we start our journey in New York, but I get more excited every day for what is to come.