The final countdown has begun. Graduation is no longer a distant goal, but a soon to be reality. And I'm ready for it. It's time to move out of this prepping me for the "real world" phase and to get out there and make my mark. I'm tired of wondering what will happen next and ready to go find out.
I spent the past four years trying to plan everything out. Now I'm just going where fate takes me. You can't predict where you'll work or what you'll do or whom you'll meet. The best any of us can do is know that if you want something bad enough, like a dream job in New York City, then one day you'll make it come true.
My attitude hasn't always been so positive. And I hate to admit this but it seems I have grown up over these past four years, especially these past few months. I still can't cook for myself or start working on an assignment ahead of time, but I do have a clearer idea of who I am, what is most important to me and what I want.
Marquette, I complained a lot about you over the years, but hey, no relationship is perfect. Sure I was dissatisfied with room and board for my first two years, but I'm lucky I had the opportunity to meet some amazing professors who truly influenced me.
I've even grown to somewhat like this little city. While I was here Milwaukee got a nice makeover and I explored what the city has to offer. Don't get the wrong idea — I'm still out of here as soon as possible.
What I'll miss the most…
The people: Part of me has always regretted not attending college elsewhere, like in New York or Boston. But then the other day somebody asked me if I could do it over again, would I attend Marquette. To my surprise I responded yes before my mind even had a chance to process the question. Then I figured out why. If I hadn't gone to Marquette I would never have met some of my best friends.
But I'm happy to say goodbye to…
The college-life stress: I appreciate all the knowledge I've acquired at Marquette. But I will not miss pulling all-nighters, cramming in chapters of material all at once or typing endless pages of term papers. On top of that I completed three internships and worked several part-time jobs over the past four years. I'm ready to focus all my attention on my career.
Soon I'll be walking across the graduation stage, with a big smile so mom and dad get a priceless picture for the mantle. Then I can finally get my hands on that expensive piece of paper that took a lot of dedication, long hours and hard work to earn.
Thanks mom and dad for your unconditional support. And thanks Marquette for the amazing experience and diploma. Good luck 2006 graduates!
