Dear parents,

I am extremely proud of you. I may be the graduate, but I wouldn’t even be a graduate if it weren’t for your love, dedication, and support for me. Due to your long hours at work, unconditional love, and your constant support, you have raised a college graduate, which is something to be very proud of.

Graduation day was the day we’ve been dreaming of, the day I went from education to a career. Graduation day was the day all your hard work and commitment to me paid off. As I moved my graduation tassel from the right side to the left, the memory of the sacrifices you’ve made for me and my education flashed through my mind, hitting me with unbelievable intensity.

I thought, how could I be fortunate enough to have parents who acquired debt, worked triple overtime, and did everything in their power to make sure I sat in this auditorium and held this diploma? I feel so blessed that I almost feel guilty.

Every part of my being knows that without such selfless, caring, and admirable parents, there would be no tassel for me to move.

Throughout my life, you haven’t only taken care of yourselves, but you’ve provided a life for me that I am eternally grateful for. You taught me the value of hard work and the importance of being passionate in everything I do, which I will continue carrying throughout my post-graduate life.

From my very first day of school as a terrified preschooler to my very last as a nervous graduate, you have shown me the purest form of unconditional love and pride. It is through the love and pride you have for me that I can be the child you’ve always dreamt of me being.

You have raised an intelligent, hard working, and successful child. You have raised someone who, because of you, can confidently advance into adulthood and professional life. Though I still have much to learn, the education you’ve provided me with throughout my life is invaluable and irreplaceable. Everything I am, I owe to you.

You have been and will continue to be my biggest motivation for making myself be the best I can possibly be in all facets of my life. You’ve always accepted me for who I am, even in my flaws. You’ve loved me and guided me, even when I wasn’t sure of who I was. You’ve loved me even when I wasn’t sure if I loved myself.

You provided the materials for me that allowed me to write my own story, a story that is about to become another chapter longer, all thanks to you.

During those times where I wasn’t sure if I was going to make it through the day, let alone the rest of college, you were there reminding me of how proud you are of me, simply for being me.

You take GOAT (greatest of all time) to a whole new level. Thank you – thank you for every single thing. Without you, I would not be who or where I am at this current moment; I am a college graduate. I am a graduate of a well known University. I am an adult. While I do recognize the credit I must give myself, even more, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for you, my parents, who made my graduation from college possible.

Parents, you raised someone who is a graduate from college. It’s time we all stand up and clap for you because you did it!