Every day, my roommate reminds me how many days are left until I graduate. She thinks it is hilarious, as she does not graduate until December. Every time I hear that number, I feel the pit of nausea in my stomach grow. 

Of course, I know I am graduating in 93 days. I have been a student at Shippensburg University since fall of 2022, when I stepped onto this campus not knowing a single soul. I soon found my people, including the aforementioned roommate, Sherlyn Martinez, who has been my roommate and best friend since. 

Each time I think about my impending graduation, I remember about the three and a half years I lived, studied and worked on this campus. I made friends, learned from classes and extracurriculars and hopefully am prepared for any role I obtain after graduation. 

I learned a lot of lessons as well. My favorite? It is not that deep. While that sounds silly, it is true. Stressing about an assignment? I will get it done. My friend is upset with me? We will talk it out. Made a mistake on a work project? I will fix it. 

Nothing is absolute. If you are unhappy in your life, you have the power to change that. Years of people pleasing have taught me that people will come and go. But the people that truly love you? They will stick around through the ups and downs. 

College has given me more than I could have ever imagined. “Real” adults always say that these years go fast. I brushed it off, but little did I know, they were absolutely correct. I am thankful for my time at Shippensburg University. While the thought of graduating is terrifying, I am excited to see what is next for me after the next 93 days.

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