Goodbye College

Last night, at 10:10pm, I submitted my final college assignment. I'm not talking in the sense of I've completed this semester and will be back at it next semester. No, I mean I'm DONE. I have officially completed college and will graduate in May.

It was extremely odd to sign on my computer this morning and not have to log in to see what assignments were going to be due this week or what chapters I have to read. This class I just finished was the hardest I've had and it really tested whether I deserved my degree. It's one thing to take classes and pass them. It's another to take everything you've learned and apply it. That was what I had to do for this class. I had to take all my knowledge from my IT classes and apply it to a company (thanks Uncle Will). I'm proud knowing I rocked this class and that I can actually do everything I've learned. It's surreal to know that the end is here. 

This is something that has been a long time coming. For those that don't know, I didn't take the usual 4 year route. This journey started back in 2009 and it's been a roller coaster. There was a time when I wasn't sure if I'd actually get to this point. Somehow, someway, everything came together and I did it. It's finally here.

I wouldn't be here though without the help of some very important people. And to those people I'd like to say thanks...

Alex - My girl... You've been there since before day 1. I'll never look at a universal remote the same, let alone a pink one. If I didn't have you by my side, I have no idea how I could have done all this. You've seen the crazy ups and downs college can put a person through and you've always supported me. Who knew that a random roommate pairing Freshman year would end up changing our lives forever. From a million whiteboards, to the Chinese delivery man knowing us personally, Harry E, concerts, cries, laughs, french fries, Gilmore Girls, Rosanne, Everybody Loves Raymond, Grottos, DP dancing, to so much more. It's no wonder you're my maid of honor and sister.

Josh - You've seen me want to throw in the towel out of frustration so many times. Your motivation and support has meant a lot. Those nights where I'm ready to throw my computer across the room in frustration and you continuously cheer me on. You're always telling me that "I've got this" and reminding me that I'm almost done. You continue to push me as I look for a full time job. Reminding me not to settle and to go after what I want and what I deserve. I love you and I'm so grateful to have you by my side.

My Family - I always appreciated everyone asking how school was going and telling me congratulations when I shared a good grade or semester. You all have always been there and supported me. Thanks!

Mom & Dad - Wow, where do I even begin. Nothing I can say here will truly express how grateful and thankful I am for you two and the continued support you've given me. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you two. You both always instilled in me the importance of school from a young age. You've always pushed me to strive towards things I didn't think I was capable of doing. You saw my nervousness of trying something new freshman year. You watched me barely stay above water when Sophomore year was complete crap and I had to move back home. Instead of thinking I was just looking for a way out of school, you trusted me when I said I needed to take a semester off and get tested for ADD. You've been patient and supportive. I didn't take the usual route and you both have never complained about that. You've always known that I could do this and you had no problem reminding me. You've allowed me to vent when teachers have been pricks or I worked my butt off and didn't get the grade I thought I deserved. Dad always knew when to bring me ice cream because he wouldn't see me for hours because I'd be up to my neck in a huge paper. You both always ask what I'm learning about and show interest, even if you don't always understand what I'm saying. You both get a sparkle in your eye and a huge smile every time I tell you I got a good grade on an assignment, test or in a class. Seeing how proud you were of me when I eased my way back into school and succeeded. That I've continued to succeed. Knowing I've made you both proud has been the biggest motivation. Most of the time, it's the only motivation I need. Making you two proud is all I've wanted to do. When I walk across that stage and receive my diploma, it'll be just as much for you two as it is for me. I guess that will be my way of saying thank you.

So where do I go from here? Many are curious if I'll go for my Masters. Unless the money becomes available for it, it isn't going to happen.

Now, it's time to plan our wedding!!! :)