Fifteen years ago, I was the class of 2002. Three years ago, I was the class of 2014. Now, I am the class of 2017. The feeling is more surreal than words can describe. It doesn't seem possible to be graduating from college already. As cliche as it may sound, it feels as though my kindergarten graduation was just yesterday. With midterms right around the corner, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by how fast time is going and how much is still left to do.

As I work through all that needs to be done for the future, I strive primarily towards reaching one goal: becoming something that little me would be proud of. I encourage others to do the same.

Who did little you look up to? Who did they want to be?

Of course, who little you wanted to be may not be who grown-up you wants to be, and that's perfectly fine. However, will little you be proud of you?

If little you met you, would they stand and stare at you in awe? Would they be blown away by all that you have accomplished? Would they be eager to grow up and experience so many wonderful success stories?

I think they would. Granted, what kid doesn't spend their days eager to grow up and pretending to be a teacher, an explorer, or an astronaut just to name a few, but seriously. Little you has a lot to be proud of.

I mean, in a couple short months, you'll be a college graduate. While little you, may not have fully understood the significance of graduating from college, that is something to be incredibly proud of. Then, there are all of the other feats you have accomplished. Little you would be so proud. So, as you tackle the stresses of job applications, remember that no matter what happens, little you in incredibly proud of you.