As some of you may know, I am completely obsessed with Illinois State University and feel 110% at home here in Normal, IL. I love everything from the dining centers, to uptown, to the busyness of the quad. However, it hasn’t always been this way. I, like most college students, have had times where I couldn’t wait to graduate and couldn’t wait to be done with the tests and constant stress of the schoolwork. However, with graduation this weekend, I am realizing that these past four years have been nothing but pure joy and have shaped me into the person I am today. While being here I have learned a few things I would like to share with you.
1. What you learn in the classroom is important, but what you can learn from your professors will make you grow as a person even more. I know, I know all of their past professional experience can get old and boring, but they do know what they are talking about. Listening to their experiences can only help you succeed in your future. If you have a professor you really enjoy, go to their office hours and talk to them; pick their brain about anything and everything, they love that stuff.
2. It’s okay to jump out there and fail. Okay, I don’t mean go out and fail all of your classes, but this is the time where making mistakes will be easily forgiven. You’re at a university where there are so many options to be anyone and do anything you want. You don’t need to stay in your high school bubble and play it safe. Take a risk and believe in yourself.
3. Take every opportunity given to you. I have been known to over-commit myself to things, but I don’t regret the sleepless nights for anything. I have learned so much by being involved and met some of the most amazing people. By having these opportunities I have learned so much about myself and who I really want to be.
4. Only do what is important to you. Figuring out what truly matters to me is something that I really learned while being here. I stopped caring about what other people thought and started doing things for only myself. Being selfish in your twenties is okay and frankly, I encourage it.
They say graduation is not the end but it is the beginning. As hard as that was for me to except at first, I am finally starting to realize that it’s okay to be scared, but to also be excited for the opportunities that lie ahead. So graduating seniors, I hope that the next step in your life is successful and that you never forget the many memories that you made here at Illinois State University.