As the day of graduation approaches closer and closer, I am beginning to feel stranger and stranger. It’s an odd feeling, truly. I’m happy because the semester is nearing an end with no more tests or assignments or lectures even if that’s how I want it. But then the little girl inside of me who has loved school since she set foot into her first day of pre-school seeps in, and I begin to feel this dull ache. I have loved my time at the University of California, Berkeley. The opportunity to learn from such amazing professors and fellow students, exploring a new city and even a new state, and meeting some of my best friends has been one of the greatest experiences of my life thus far.
It is such a complicated time in my life because there is a part of me that feels jealous of those younger than me that have more time to be a part of this extraordinary place. Yet, at the same time, I’m excited for my next chapter that lies ahead. I want to experience the world and leave an imprint on it, and, thanks to Berkeley, I have the courage to pursue my dreams. Making it through all four years at one of the most challenging public universities is definitely an accomplishment, and one I forget often.
This last month has filled me with a mix of emotions. On the one hand I am stressed trying to figure out what comes after this chapter, and about finishing up my classes with the same drive and intensity as when I first started. Yet, on the other hand, I am having some of the most fun ever at Berkeley by spending time with my friends soaking up every last minute we have together. For the past year, my friends and I have made a list of things we wanted to make sure we did before graduating, and those have been some of my favorite memories. This past Friday, my friends and I drove down to Monterey where we went to the aquarium and had lunch. It was such a great experience! I felt so happy and free just driving and having fun with my friends! On Monday, my roommate and I, wanting to since sophomore year, decided to walk the Golden Gate Bridge. We even did it despite the rain! I don’t think I’ve ever laughed so hard. It’s such a happy and sad feeling to know you’ve created such great friendships in a special place.
Thank you, Berkeley for being such an extraordinary place that I don’t want to part with just yet. Thank you for all the people you brought into my life. Thank you for the knowledge and the thoughts. But most importantly, thank you for all the memories.