Im between graduating  from undergrad and starting graduate school, I worked my first real job as a support assistant at a public preschool, but still didn’t really feel like I’m moving on from that critical stage of my life. 

In my semester off, I don’t think I really took the time to understand that I’m moving on. I know I’m doing it, and I’m ready, but I do need time to accept that change and comprehend it. Because even though I’m ready. I’m not going to be seeing my friends every day, nor will I continue with my campus job that I loved. I’m the kind of person who is really invested in the place they currently are, so sometimes when I leave a place I forget some of the parts I loved the most.

I visited my friends at Ithaca College one weekend, and remembered all my experiences and people that are so valuable to me. It’s scary to leave the place that taught me so much about myself and how to be independent, and gave me confidence to do my best and find my passion in speech-language pathology. To try and remember all those things I learned to better myself and succeed, and continue with that motivation in a new place sounds kind of exhausting, especially having to do it with new people. I’m sure a lot of people are feeling the same, especially if they are unsure where they will work or live. I am fortunate to have more of a set path, but even then, the change is overwhelming. I’ve moved a lot in my life, so I am used to having to experience a new place, but this is the first time that I’ll be making more of my own decisions. Of course I still have support, but it’s really my life now, and it’s up to me to see where it goes. And that’s terrifying. 

As my friends from all over the world graduate, or move on to their next chapter, the best thing we can do is take time to pat ourselves on the back for all the hard work we’ve done, the struggles we overcame (No matter what they are- if it was a battle for you, then it’s incredible you got past it.) and the changes we’ve made to better ourselves. We’re leaving a physical place behind, but all of those things will take you safely to your next step, whatever that may be and whatever happens there. It’s not going to be easy. Some things that happen are out of our control, but what we can control is our personal attitude. how we practice self-love and care and who we surround ourselves with. The right people, family or friends, who care and understand you, and are not afraid to tell you the hard truths, are ones you need to keep around. 

Huge applause to all my friends and family, wherever you are, and whatever is happening for you. Because you made it. Even if that just means just making it through the day. Having the strength to do that is sometimes the hardest thing. Congratulations.