High school graduation is one thing, but college…...
You have waited for this moment for what seems like an eternity, with hundreds of people watching you. Somewhere in the mass are the people who have supported you throughout the mental breakdowns, midnight study sessions, and countless espresso shots, waiting for the second your name is announced to cheer.
Down on the football field or floor of the auditorium your surrounded by familiar faces. Peers who have fought the same battles, strangers who have become friends, people you've grown with.
Some already have jobs lined up, working for companies seldom heard of, but they are excited. Others are getting married directly if not soon after to start their new beginnings all at once. Then there are the few who like yourself, have no earthly idea what to do after graduation.
You've gone through the steps, applied for jobs, participated in the interviews, but nothing turned out how you thought it would. A thousand no's before the yes, just hasn't come yet and that's all right. You reflect on the last four years of the memories made, tears that have fallen, and things marked off your bucket list; realizing that it is time for a new place to explore, new faces to meet, and more coffee to drink.
As the ceremony begins you imagine the town or city that you'll pull up to. Reading the welcome sign, looking at the population number and adding one more to it.
You drive down through the main part of town looking at the stores that catch your eye. You notice a coffee shop, not like the one at home but similar enough, pretending you're already a regular and your computer automatically connects to the Wi-Fi. You see people walking their dogs to the dog park, eager to meet the fellow pooch parents.
As the announcer reads off the name of a friend a few seats up, you're rearranging the furniture in the quaint and cozy house you are renting. Envisioning where the mix and match chairs acquired over the years will go, under the family portrait or by the front door, either way it will pop. You imagine family and friends coming to visit for the weekend, sharing your favorite parts of the town.
Then you hear it, your entire name, and it isn't your mother's voice yelling at you. It is the booming voice of the announcer, awaiting to shake your hand and give you the degree. The degree that is paid for with sweat, tears, and student loans.
You gave it your all, and the moment is now. As you stand up and head towards the stage you hear the celebrations of family and friends. You beam with glee as their encouragements fill the air.
Time to turn your tassels, and head off to a new destination.
