Graduated.

I can’t believe that I did it. I made it through college. Most people feel as though when they turn 21, they become an adult. But I think it’s when you get your degree and realize that you have completed something that you have prepared for since 5 years old, you truly are an adult. No more papers, no more exams, no more late night study sessions, no more early morning classes. When I think about everything I’ve gone through these past four years, it is truly amazing that I made it. Some question whether college is right for them. I don’t know where I would be without the college experience. I’ve learned so much and have grown so much as a person, that I wouldn’t trade the experience for the world. I’m also glad that I went to a school far away from home. I gained a greater sense of independence and it got me out of the small town bubble of New Orleans. I got to travel and see the world. I’ve accomplished things and seen things that most people will never do or see in their whole lives. I am so extremely lucky that I have parents that have a “where there’s a will there’s a way” mentality. Though we’re not the wealthiest of people, we know how to make do with what we have and make it worth our while.

I’ve also have a greater sense of self worth. These four years I’ve allowed myself to be used and stepped on. It really made me question my worthiness and existence in general. But it’s like the saying goes…”what doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger.” And boy, am I strong now. I know that I’m worth a lot more than I give myself credit for. I’m driven, I’m extremely intelligent, I’m wise beyond my years, I am beautiful, and I have a caring heart. Too often I give too much of myself to others. But now that I’ve learned from the mistakes I’ve made in the past due to naïveté, I’m constantly in self preservation mode. I refuse to be hurt. I am no longer weak. Watch out. I’m more focused than I ever have been in the past. This steam train is on the way and isn’t slowing down anytime soon.