When someone asks me how I feel about graduating I tell them that it’s surreal. Part of it is because the traditional graduation we hoped to see is not happening, while the other part is because I’m the first person in my family to get a college degree. As I scroll through photos of my senior year, I feel a bittersweetness to it. Sad that my undergrad years have come to end, but also thankful for the moments I spent with all the people I met at Florida State University.
I have grown so much as an individual from being a freshman at my community college to now a graduating senior at FSU. I’m truly proud of the woman I have become. I used to dream about times like this of how it would feel to graduate from a big, top university. And the day has finally come. As I stare ahead into the future as an FSU Alumna, I look back at how far I’ve come.
I remember my first semester as a transfer at FSU. It was two years ago during the summer. As I was walking around campus looking at the beautiful orange sunset, I remember thinking to myself that I wanted my presence to be known on campus by the end of senior year. Fast forward to now and I feel confident that I did. One of the most valuable advice I tell other transfers is to put yourself out there because that’s when you meet amazing people who go from being a stranger to becoming one of your closest friends. You also come across you amazing opportunities that can enhance your academic and future career when you step out of your comfort zone.
In the beginning, there will be times when you’re lonely. But just know you will eventually find your niche of people. During the time period when it’s just you and yourself, get comfortable with your solitude in living in a new city. Use Google to find fun, adventurous activities to do, or if you want more of a chill vibe go check out and try the different coffee shops around town.
As a transfer, it’s very important to believe in yourself. No one knows you better than you do. Whatever the dreams and goals you have for yourself are attainable because if you can uproot your current life and start over at a new school in a new city, then you can achieve anything. The sky is limitless. Whatever it is you want to do on campus, go for it and do it because the last two years of your undergrad goes by quick.
As I change all my social media bios to “FSU Alumna”, I feel happiness and gratitude. The last two years have been full of growth and fun memories. I came to FSU with open arms and in the end, the campus embraced me back and gave me so much in return.
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