it's weird typing that. I care barely believe that I have spent four years in college. I've worked so hard and really cannot believe that I graduated on time. I started school aimless and as much as I enjoyed the comfort of Raymond Walters, I think that choosing NKU was one of the best things I have ever done. Although my parents have always been super supportive and I cannot even begin to explain how grateful I am to them, they basically cut off my college funding after my associates and really didn't do much as far as guiding me about what to do next. I knew I couldn't afford to continue at UC, go to Xavier or Miami, but NKU was something I hoped I could manage. And after some 40+ hour work weeks, weekends of babysitting, being 22 and still living at home, I'm so proud to say that I financed these last two years of school, books, supplies, parking passes and graduation expenses all without ever taking out a loan. Not to toot my own horn, but I'm just really grateful I was able to do all this without too much help.
I tried all day to keep it together, but my eyes were misted for most of the day. As I was sitting waiting to get my diploma I just kept thinking about what I huge accomplishment and stepping stone this is. My parents hugged me and told me how proud they were all day. And they were just glowing, which felt really nice. I even held it together when I received a card from my great Aunt in New York which ended: "I know your grandma would be so proud", but when I came home tonight I had a final unopened card on my dresser. It was from my mom and dad and as I read it, I just couldn't hold it back any longer. I know I'm continuing on with my education and that anymore EVERYONE gets a college degree, but really it is a lot of work and a big risk. I just want to thank everyone who has been in my life for the past four years. I feel like I've grown so much and am so grateful for everyone in my life. Today I feel truly blessed. To be honest, it's one if not the happiest day of my life.
