Today is the last day I’ll see my name printed in The BG News as a staff writer.
It’s a startling, somber reality, since I’ve devoted more of my time, energy and passion to this publication than any other endeavor since enrolling at Bowling Green State University three and a half years ago.
Days later, I’ll experience my final moments as a student when I graduate with a journalism degree. I haven’t faced something this final in a long time. It’s bittersweet.
It hasn’t really hit me yet. It probably won’t until I walk out of the Stroh Center Saturday as a University alumna. To be honest, I’m not sure how I’ll react.
Although I came to the University with mixed feelings (see my first column this year for more specifics), it has truly become my home.
I’ve learned so much in a few short years — not only about journalism, but about life, and most importantly, about myself.
Sure, my college experience hasn’t been perfect. It’s been filled with ups and downs.
Some memories, like blossoming friendships, life-changing internships, late nights in the newsroom and “family dinners,” make me smile.
Other memories, like foam parties, dub step night, body painting art projects and overflowing dishwashers, make me laugh.
Looking back, I also acknowledge I’ve made mistakes. I’ve done things I regret, too.
But I don’t think I would turn back time to change anything, because everything I’ve experienced here has shaped me into the person I am today.
Who is that person, you may ask? Well, I wear the color pink way too much. I can’t picture myself doing anything but being a newspaper reporter because it’s the most thrilling, rewarding career in the world.
Pictures of cats, dolphins and Gerard Butler make me squeal with glee.
I can name any song in Green Day’s 20-year catalog after hearing just an opening guitar riff.
I don’t touch many video games from this century, but I’ll always have a soft spot in my heart for classics with clunky graphics like Final Fantasy, Spyro the Dragon, Pac-Man and Crash Bandicoot.
Sometimes I actually believe the Cleveland Indians will win the World Series in my lifetime.
I love staying up late and having extended conversations with friends and random acquaintances alike. I’m usually terrified of outwardly expressing my emotions.
Occasionally I wish I had more self-confidence. But four years ago, I wouldn’t have even had enough confidence to disclose this short list of information about myself. The University changed that.
To me, college’s greatest lesson is self-discovery.
Students come to campus uncertain of their desires, identities and futures. In a few short years, they leave with new-found knowledge, confidence and skills, prepared to succeed in the “real world.”
It’s a fun, exciting time to enjoy, explore and expand, but the process can’t last forever.
Earlier this semester, my instructor posed a related question: If you could take a pill to live forever, would you do it? The class responded with a resounding “no,” stating life would quickly lose its worth if it was endless. So what’s the moral of the story?
The best things in life, like college, aren’t meant to last forever; because they’re short, they’re precious, cherished and meaningful. We all hear stories of “professional students” who never want to move on because they relish their college experiences so much.
They’ll purposefully fail classes, pursue multiple degrees or obtain unnecessary graduate education just to keep themselves from moving forward, presumably because they’re frightened by what lies ahead.
But that’s not me. I’m ready now.
Yes, I’m inexplicably sad to leave behind a network of friends, classmates, instructors and co-workers, but likewise, I recognize college has served its purpose. I’m prepared and excited for what’s next.
There’s plenty waiting for me: wedding plans, a new job at The Sandusky Register in my hometown, summers by Lake Erie, reunions with family and friends and much more. My life, my fun, my learning is hardly over. It’s just getting started.
And without the University — now a permanent part of my identity — my future endeavors wouldn’t be possible. I wouldn’t be who I am.
So thank you, BGSU, for an unforgettable three and a half years of self-discovery, professional preparation and unforgettable memories.
I, most certainly, had the time of my life.
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