I started my college education in 2011. After starting a semester late, transferring and changing my major, I will finally be graduating in December 2016, five and a half years later.
Many of my friends have already graduated, started their full time jobs and have started making a good living for themselves. It was hard for me to accept the fact that I was not going to be walking across that stage with all of my friends.
For those of you who are having a hard time accepting as well, I am here to let you know that it is not the end of the world.
Graduating in any number of years is an accomplishment. For those of you who finish your bachelors degree in four years, congratulations! That is truly something you should be proud of. But for those of you who have to wait an extra semester, a year, or even, a year and a half like me, do not worry. Your time will come.
One of the worst parts about finding out that I was not going to graduate on time was telling not only my friends, but my family. My friends were sad and shocked, much like I was, but supported me through everything. I can not thank them enough for that. I knew my family would support me as well but I just did not want them to be disappointed or ashamed of me.
Of course that was just all in my head because my family and yours are always going to be proud of you no matter how long it takes you to graduate.
People need to understand that everyone learns in their own way and at their own pace. When the time comes for you to finally walk across that stage, it will be the time you were meant to.
There were a lot of odds working against me throughout my whole college career. With financial issues, working, playing a sport, and trying to juggle five or six classes, I have had my fair share of tears.
After every much needed cry, I ended up feeling more determined to graduate. With each semester that goes by, a little more weight comes off my shoulders.
Your time will come, your college career will come to an end, and you will probably be more upset about it than you thought you would be. College is an experience everyone should be grateful to have. You meet amazing people, learn new things about yourself, and find a passion for something.
Enjoy the college life while you can. Enjoy your classes, find new interests or hobbies, and study what you love. Don’t add more pressure or stress onto yourself by not accepting the fact that you aren’t graduating. Finish your college education strong and confident. All those worries you had before won’t even matter when you walk across that stage to receive your diploma.
