Wow. Next weekend will be May 13, 2017. The day that felt like it would take half a century to get here since 2013 when I graduated high school. But, it's simultaneously also the day that seems to be coming quicker and quicker with each passing month. That day, of course, is graduation day.
Graduation day is a day that fills me with a whirlwind of emotions. On one hand, I'm super excited to be done with classes, hours of homework and stressful exams. On the other hand, I'm super scared and anxious for what's ahead. I wish I could just skip to the part where I was employed, doing what I love and making money doing so.
Amid all of the emotions I've been feeling, I've also been reflecting on everything that I love about Clarion and what I'm really going to miss when I'm gone.
1. Bob's Subs
I know, I know. Every town has a sandwich shop. But nobody compares to Bob's, especially not Subway. (Sorry eat fresh fanatics.) Bob's has a variety of deliciously fresh options ranging from a "Veggies and Cheese" to "Bob's Delight" with cappicola, ham and turkey. They're all so good that you start to feel compelled to try them all before you graduate. Are you up for that challenge?
2. Patty from Gemmell
Does this one really need explanation? Honestly, Patty makes Gemmell worth going to. She's so sweet to everyone and she can really make your day.
3. Michelle's Cafe
Where I'm originally from, our main options for coffee are Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts. Don't get me wrong, I love me some Dunkin', but Michelle's Cafe is the greatest. It's a cozy little shop where you can sit and enjoy your coffee or other beverage of your choice and a bagel or a pastry. It's a super relaxing environment and I love it so much. Not to mention everything is always delicious.
4. The Clarion River and waterfall
I absolutely love water. I think it's beautiful and it can be super refreshing when it's hot outside. It took me way longer than it should have to find out there was a waterfall in Clarion, but it's now one of my favorite places ever. It's pretty and it's a very relaxing environment. Not to mention the Clarion River and all of the fun memories I have from hanging out there in the beautiful weather during the warmer months.
5. The community
I don't know about anyone else, but Clarion definitely has a better community than my hometown. Coming from a place where people keep to themselves, it's nice to walk around and see people smile and say hello to each other. Clarion is definitely a lot safer and more friendly than what I'm used to. To get specific here, I'll also miss all of the great people that I've met, especially the ones I'm used to interacting with daily.
This is just a short list of things I'll miss once I graduate. We also can't forget Autumn Leaf Festival, Vinny's, adventures to the trestle and so many more things!
It's been a great adventure at Clarion and I'm so thankful for all the opportunities that I've had and all the great people I met. I can only hope the next chapter of my life is even half as great!
CU soon Clarion.
