My Reflection When Graduating College

Being one day away from graduating college, thoughts are rushing through my mind.

I have had my worst and best times, some of which could have been different while the rest were inevitable. Either way, life happened as it should have. It's fair to say I struggled mentally, emotionally, socially, and physically. I made friends, lost friends, passed exams, failed exams, slept too much, slept too little, ate too much, stressed too much to eat, worked hard, slacked off, etc. Whatever the situation may have been, it had something to do with where I am now. While it was all happening, life was difficult to understand. I was never really sure of any decision I made and certainly wasn't always sure what my true reasoning was. But here I stand thankful for every mistake, second-guess, erased answer, unfinished question, missed class, and all-nighter. It was through my failures that I truly ascertained knowledge and learned about life itself. Many of my happy memories are about laughing over something I did wrong and my most distinct memories are about what didn't go right. Friendships, relationships, work and school were what consumed my mind for a majority of these past four years. I still don't have an inkling as to what a perfect friend, perfect significant other, perfect employee or a perfect student is, but I can at least say I know some of what isn't. I've certainly grown during my time at The University of Pittsburgh, but the journey of life is still just beginning. After all, the meaning of life isn't defined by attaining your accomplishments (like the act of receiving your diploma); life is about the trek. By no means am I saying not to be proud of achieving your goals, just don't forget why you started and enjoy the path you're taking. If you don't love the process, you might not be chasing the right dream. So, take this time in your life while being young to figure yourself out. If you are to be selfish at any point in time, it should be now. Before you dedicate your life to another person or a job, make sure you know where you stand as an independent. While we are dynamic and ever changing, we all have roots. No matter where you go, remember where you've been.