The Graduating Class of 2015,

Can you believe that it has been almost two years since we all sat together on that football field dressed in purple and gold? Unsurprisingly, a lot has changed since then. Most of us went our separate ways, on to bigger and better things. In these two years, we have undoubtedly made new friends, new memories and most likely, some new interests too. For me, college has truly been one of the most exciting times in my life. I hope the same can be said for each of you as well.

I have heard it said that we should live life with "No Ragrets". Well, I don't know about you, but there are some things I would want to change if I could've gone back to high school. For one, I was so concerned with being liked and seeking approval that I let it take over my time at Sayville High School. I did have a great experience, don't get me wrong, but, I cant help wondering "what I could have done differently".

It is strange to me that up until recently, I had second thoughts about posts on social media because I wasn't sure that they would impress you. Logically, that makes no sense considering I know that a number of you couldn't care less about what I was up to. I knew that you didn't care how many friends I had or if I went to a party or not, and yet, it still bought me satisfaction to know that you all knew that I found "my people" (Hokies). The truth is that I was (am) having a great time. I would forget why I was trying so hard to project this image of my social status. And then I remembered that I felt I had to prove some people wrong. I let that go, and started to prove things to myself instead.

Something I came to notice upon coming to college is how concerned I was with the "cliques" that exist in every high school. Honestly, I was afraid to talk to the people who had a higher "social standing" than me. Because of that, I missed out on some things. I should have known that your kindness transcended any group. It is strange to say that I miss some people who I was never necessarily close with. Now, I only get to see some of them at an occasional cheer leading competition, or bump into them while getting an Acai bowl. I see some of you working in Sayville, and some of you I encounter in the craziest of places. A few of you even walk the same Blacksburg streets. Some of you I met in elementary school and became close with early on. Others I only got to know towards the end of senior year; that for me, was the most frustrating thing. It is true that I miss some of you and regret that our only real encounter was getting superlatives together, or visiting the zoo with APES, or just sitting in chorale. It is also true, that I have faith in the future, and while I regret some things, coming to Virginia Tech definitely makes me feel a heck of a lot better.

That being said, I am very happy where I am. I am lucky to be in a place that I could have only dreamed of being. I am lucky to be able to say that I am happy with what I have done and excited for what I will do. I cannot believe the opportunities that have been bought to me. I would never have imagined the things I would have done. College has been a blast so far, and the best part is... we still have time.

I wish "y'all" nothing but success and hope to see you soon. Remember, you have the power to do epic stuff and to have an epic life.

Best,

Jake Vail

Should you wish to reconnect, HMU.