Dear Class of 2019: Letter to the Graduates
Graduation time. It's one of my favorite times of the year. From high school to college, professional programs, and everything in between, it's the opportunity to celebrate all of your accomplishments. And just to be clear, graduating IS an accomplishment. You've put in countless hours of studying, completing assignments/projects, and taking exams. You've done the work and deserve to be recognized for that. Some people might say the graduation photoshoots, and thematic videos are going a little bit overboard, but I say BRING IT ON. You deserve to take this time and celebrate in whatever fashion you like. Because after this moment, you won't get the chance again.
From this moment on, your life becomes about what you do next. What college you'll go to, what Master's program you'll start, what company will you get your first full-time job( if you don't already have one lined up) from, where will you move to. If you're lucky, you've already planned a celebratory trip or party before the next phase of your life begins, whatever that may be. Take the time out to be with the people who loved and supported you along the way and truly celebrate. On that same note, you didn't get here on your own. Somebody, somewhere helped you while on this journey, take the time out to say thank you to them.
To those who have lost family or loved ones before they could see you cross that stage, you're not alone. Know that while they might not be there physically, they're dancing and celebrating your achievements just as much as you are. Embrace the people still around, hold them close, and remember that they are here for you to lean on.
For those who may have just missed the cut off to graduation, have to graduate a semester later, or may have had to leave school for an extended period of time, I understand this time may be difficult for you. You're probably thinking that you've failed in some way. I just want you to know that you have not. Everyone's path is different. Just because you may not get to celebrate now, doesn't mean your own time won't come. It will. For now, support your friends and celebrate with them. When your own time comes, they'll be right there with you.
You'll be hearing it a lot over the next few weeks, but let me be another person to say CONGRATULATIONS, GRADUATE! You did it! Celebrate, enjoy this time, and after you've gotten your fill, get ready for the next part of your journey. I can't wait to see what you do next.