As graduation approaches this week, my time as a college student has come to an end, yet I am thankful for the greatest chapter of life, thus far. It has been said that leaving GCU is like leaving the best summer camp, and I couldn’t agree more. Leaving “camp” after living, learning and loving here at GCU is hard. Mom and dad always told me (whoever they are) that this chapter is the hardest to close, and they were right about that, and a lot of other things.

As I reflect on the past four years, it is clear to me that God’s plans are so much better than my own, and that if life were up to me, it would be a whole lot more boring than following His will. I never planned to be in Arizona, sweating endlessly in the desert on the West Coast. Nor did I expect to be staying in Phoenix after graduation, but then again God’s plans always prevail. I’ll never forget the first time my family and I stepped foot onto GCU’s campus, as I heard my mom say, “God has a covering over this place.” Well, mom, you were right...again. Yes, GCU may not be in the best area of Phoenix, with some going as far as referring to it as “the ghetto,” but never have I learned and experienced what true community looked like before coming here. A community that doesn’t see brokenness as a failure, but instead as an opportunity for improvement with a hope for revival. A place where “love your neighbor as yourself,” isn’t a suggestion or a mandatory service project, but is an essential piece to following Christ willingly and wholeheartedly. I know, for one thing, the people of Central Phoenix have added more value to my life, than I ever could have added to theirs. I am proud to call them friends.

Speaking of friends, my mom still talks about her college friends and even keeps in touch with a couple of them from time to time, so she was right when she said, “you’ll meet your best friends in college.” After years of praying, God has finally given me a community of leaders and friends that put their relationship with Christ above all things. Friends who have pushed me to be a better servant leader, follower, sister, and friend. Who pray, encourage and uplift me in the pursuit of my dreams and God’s plan for my life. Through many Netflix series, Bible studies, brunches and game nights, I couldn’t have survived college without them (you know who you are). We may not all ever be together again at the same time in this life, but praise Jesus that we have all of eternity in Heaven to look forward to. Amen, amen!

Antelopes, never travel alone -- always in herds. College has become one giant herd of a second family. That’s GCU, in a nutshell, one giant family of students from all different backgrounds, beliefs, and dreams, who somehow manage to live with each other in peace. College wakes us all up and makes us realize what is truly important, like our families. Sometimes I wonder if moving 1,500 miles away from home was the best idea, but I don't think I would have ever realized just how wonderful my home and the people in and around it were if I had stayed. Mom and Dad, I know I've said it a million times, but I wouldn't be who I am without your patience, guidance and unconditional love. You challenged me to stay when things got hard, prayed for me in times of confusion, and encouraged me to never settle for less than my dreams. You will always be my home.

3.5 years. 7 semesters. 120 credits. And just like that college is over, and life in the "real world" begins now. All of the purple t-shirts are packed up in boxes, but the memories? I'm taking those with me. As for graduation, I am ready to walk that stage with my lopes high in the air, wearing purple with pride as I chase the next big adventure called life.