Why yes, another sappy article about graduation. Unfortunately, I can no longer help my self and only find inspiration from my impending graduation from college that is taking place this upcoming Saturday. If you are a senior, then you will understand that tears are a daily occurrence. Doesn't matter who you are with, where you are, or what you are doing, but sometimes a song, a memory, or a moment will instantly get you crying thinking about graduation and the past four years of college. I have cried in the library, I have cried when hearing a song from freshman year, and I have cried when looking at my time hop (because who doesn't).
I have discovered a few things in these sappy moments. First, that free tissues are available at the University Health Center and second, it is possible to laugh and cry at the same time. Though graduation can seem like the end of the world (I am dramatic) it can also help you to remember how blessed you are to have spent the past four years with the greatest people at the greatest place. Sure, its sad to think that you won't be returning at the end of August for another year, but just remember all those other times you did. Sometimes remembering the most wonderful times makes the transition a bit easier.
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The main reason for all the tears is not just leaving your apartment or your school itself, but its realizing your best friends won't be around the corner anymore. But don't let that bring you down because something even better will happen. You will begin to have new adventures in new places when you visit each other and start to build new lives. You will have new stories to share and new places to experience.
I recommend embracing the tears and the sad moments because in doing so you will remember all the good times and memories: the memories that have made your college experience the great success that it is. The relationships you have made and the experiences you have learned from will make any moment feel bittersweet, but holding on to those memories will make it somewhat easier. After graduation, stay in touch, make the effort to visit people, and make the effort to visit your school. Just because your four years done, doesn't mean your connection to your school is. Relive some of those memories (the ones that you can) and share some words of wisdom that you may have to those that are still living the dream of college.
To be honest, I need to learn to take my own advice and realize that all my tears are happy tears. Though I may cry at the most random things and worry my friends a little bit, I am happy to know that this university and these past four years have made a lifelong impact on me and I couldn't be more thankful.
