Have no fear, the end is near. That was cringe-worthy corny, but I’m going with it. A week from Wednesday, I will be done school. Three weeks from this Sunday, I will be a college grad. That is both an overwhelming, but wondrous feeling. Is this real life? Someone slap me if I’m dreaming.

As the semester comes to a close and my college career comes to an end, this will be my final post as a student. This last post doesn’t come without a bit of nostalgia, a dose of thanks and a lot of pride. It almost feels like I’m writing my own obituary. I guess, in a way, I kind of am… This is my educational obit. I mean that in the least morbid way possible.

Although I am graduating and leaving this chapter in my life behind, it doesn’t represent the end of the road in my never-ending journey of learning. It’s in our nature, as human beings, to never stop learning. “If you’re not learning, you’re not living.” Side note: You’ve probably heard me refer to that quote at least a dozen times by now.

This semester has been full of trials, tribulations, extreme highs and extreme lows, followed by tears of joy, tears of fear and of course, tears of stress. I’ll spare you the gory details of the miserable lows, but I can’t help but brag about the wonderful highs. I’ve accomplished the unthinkable – at least MY unthinkable.

It’s been a long time coming, but I’ve finally completed all of the requirements to wear that fancy cap and gown and snag that pricey diploma. This semester, numerous professionals recognized me for my “impressive work”. I was honored to accept the 2016 Communication Studies Award in Recognition of Overall Academic Achievement & Program Excellence, which I was nominated for by two of the most impactful professors I’ve had the pleasure of being taught by. I was chosen to be featured in one of Stockton University’s publications for being an outstanding graduating Senior (to be released June 1st). Last but not least, I was offered a job in my intended career field, that I gladly accepted and am beyond excited to start, immediately following graduation!

A message to those of you struggling to cope with the unavoidable change prior to graduation: Relax. All of the emotions you are feeling right now are completely normal. You’re not alone. Change is coming and making that adjustment is easier said than done. Everything takes time and whatever is meant to be, will be. Embrace it – Live it, breathe it, love it. Trust the fact that everything happens for a reason. One day, you will be in the right place, at the right time and everything will make sense. Until then, trust your journey.

“And suddenly you know… it’s time to start something new and trust the magic of beginnings.”

A huge thank you to everyone that believed in me, supported me and kept me grounded this semester and for the last five years. You deserve the real MVP award!

*drops mic*