This December we’re taking stock of the year that’s passed and sharing stories of the ups, the downs, and everything in between. Meryl, could you take us through some of your highlights and insights from 2021?

Meryl: 2021 in a nutshell: a lot happened!

1. One major change for me professionally this year was switching from Audit to Advisory at Wiss. I had been in Audit for four years since leaving Ramapo college. I didn’t want to leave Wiss, but I wanted to see what other options were out there for me. I was thinking about the future, and I asked myself: can I see myself doing Audit down the road 10 years from now? I thought, Hey, maybe I’ll try this; maybe now is the right moment to make the switch and try something new! Everyone at Wiss was so supportive and seemed jump on this opportunity. And I’m really enjoying it so far! We just took on a major client, and it’s a busy time. It’s been fun to learn so much in such a short amount of time!
2. The biggest plus for me this year was getting engaged! I was in Stone Harbor for my family’s annual vacation family with my boyfriend, Jordan. We were planning to take a family photo before heading out for a nice dinner together. My extended family and I were all at the beach huddling together for a group photo and I noticed a few people turned to face me with their phones out, as if to record or take photos—including my brother, who never takes photos. I thought, “Wait a minute, what’s going on?” As I turned, I saw my boyfriend who was already down on one knee. It was amazing! The wedding is set for November
3. A third highlight was trying this year to view taking on change in a new way. I’m not good with change. I tend to be happy with what I think is a good routine. Pivoting at Wiss challenged me, in a good way. Because of this experience, I’m less afraid to change something. I feel more encouraged to act rather than worry about the unforeseen. It’s liberating to think about the future and have the courage to work towards whatever it is that I want.

2021 has taught me to live in the present moment more. My grandmother passed away in February, and her brother passed away not long after. It was a hard time for my family. I want to appreciate each moment. I always go by a quote by John Lennon: “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” I feel like it offers a lot of perspective. Always make time for yourself.