As graduation approaches in June, I’ve begun to notice more graduates taking pictures around campus. Watching them, I can’t help but feel excited for their accomplishments as they wrap up their academic journeys, unless, of course, they choose to continue their education. This year, two of my closest friends are graduating, thanks to the Running Start program.
For those unfamiliar, Running Start allows high school students to attend community college and earn college credits while still in high school. Because of this program, my friends are graduating early, at just 20 years old. While graduating early sounds impressive, I can’t help but feel a little sad knowing that they’re leaving.
I met my friends through the Newman Center last year. Kami was the first one I reached out to, and I still remember that day so vividly. She’s hilarious — always able to cheer me up no matter the circumstances. I laughed so much that day, and to this day, she jokes that she was the one making me laugh (she’s right). I remember one of our first hangouts was at Cafe on the Ave, then we got Boba Gem later. As I got to know her, I also realized how caring and honest she is, even when the truth is hard to hear. That’s something I truly admire about her.
My other friend, Aby, is the kind of person who seems quiet at first, but once she feels comfortable, she’s full of energy and chaos — in the best way! One of our first hangouts was a study session followed by acai bowls at the George CafĂ©. We clicked immediately and found we had a lot in common. Aby is like the “mom friend” of the group, always making sure we’re okay. She is intelligent, focused, and has a clear sense of where she wants to go in life. One of the things I admire about her is her organization and dedication to her goals, which inspires me to be straightforward about my goals.Â
By January, the three of us, Kami, Aby, and I, had formed a tight trio. We did everything together: the gym, lunch, and homework. People often asked us if we’d been friends since high school, and we’d laugh because we had only met that year. But our friendship quickly became one of the best parts of my first year of college. While I was still figuring out what I wanted to do, I leaned on them. They gave me pep talks, encouraged me, and, most importantly, shared their time with me.
It’s bittersweet knowing they’re graduating. I won’t see them as often now that they’re heading into the workforce while I’m still in school. Things will change. But I’ll be in the crowd this June, cheering them on as they walk across the stage. Being the loudest as I scream my lungs out. I’ll be thinking about how, in just two years, I’ll be doing the same.
I hope they know how much I appreciate everything we’ve shared over these past two years. Even if we don’t see each other as much, I believe our bond will remain strong. Watching them graduate feels like watching sisters step into a new chapter of life.
Their paths are different. Aby wants to be a lawyer, and Kami plans to become a clinical psychologist; they both plan to take a gap year before returning to school. But I know they’re ready for whatever comes next. I want to remind them not to be afraid of the future. Life has a way of unfolding in unexpected, beautiful ways. Don’t stress. Don’t try to control it all. Enjoy this moment and this celebration, as it passes quickly.
Kami and Aby, you both have such bright futures. I’ll be cheering you on from the sidelines, always. Life will change, we’ll grow up, and we’ll follow the paths school has prepared us for. Next year will feel different without you, but I know that one phone call will bring us back together, and we’ll be laughing like we always did.