The good news is: we made it. The bad news is: we made it. Our last year of college is finally upon us. Whether you are graduating early, on time, or late-- congratulations! If you are anything like me, college is your safe place or has been your home away from home since you were an innocent freshman. I remember a time not so long ago when I could not wait to leave, and now, it is here. In just two semesters, my wish will be granted...A wish that cannot be unwished.
Adulting 101 consists of looking for jobs, leaving friends behind and entering the real world. I will take a one-way ticket in the opposite direction, please and thank you. The most frightening part about leaving our college years behind us is that many of us, including myself, have no clue what the “next step” is. Think about it, our entire lives have consisted of doing what was expected as far as school goes. So, now what? Some of you plan to attend graduate/professional school to further your education, while some plan to go out into the real world to use what your undergraduate years have taught you. Regardless of what the next step is, make it great! Now is the time to show the world what you are made of.
In May, I understand that I may be the sole student crying tears of sadness; while my peers are crying tears of joy. In all honesty, there are not enough tears to show exactly how I feel about leaving college. I previously believed that high school was the best time of my life, until I reflected on all of the wonderful things that college has given me.
College has kept me up until 6 a.m. studying. College has made my room a lounge area for my residents. College has made me question my sanity. It has shown me that it is quite possible to survive on chicken tenders and fries. Above all, college has given me a sense of self. It has molded me into a better human being. College has given me opportunities like never before, both volunteer related and humbling life experiences. College has opened my eyes and made me realize how blessed I am to receive an education when there are millions of people who would kill to be in my shoes.
Come August, the tans will slowly begin to fade, the leaves will slowly begin to fall, and school mode will be upon us, once again. So, enjoy your last few weeks of summer and perhaps your last free summer forever. I wish all of you luck as we get ready to begin this final stage of our undergraduate years. No matter what your major is, where you are from, or what school you go to, I am proud of you all for getting here, and I pray that the journey to senior year was beautiful.
Hats off to the class of 2017!
