Graduation Day

Today...

..I officially become a college graduate! 

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...The University of Kansas becomes my alma mater.

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...I join my dad, uncles, aunt, sister, and cousin as a KU alum.

My dad on his graduation day

...I will walk through the campanile where I got engaged for the first time! (Legends surrounding the campanile say that if you walk through it before graduation day you won't graduate on time and if you kiss someone under it, he/she will be the one you marry!)

...and then I'll walk down the hill with all of my family (and soon-to-be family) and friends there to support me!

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It's a big day. And I'm pretty darn proud of myself. I completed my undergraduate degree in 3 years with a 3.8 GPA. I did something totally out of my comfort zone by coming up here without any of my friends or David and I succeeded. There were so many people (including a couple of our high school teachers) who said I'd never make it and would ask David when I was going to transfer back to Wichita State. And I'd just like to say, 'HA! I not only made it, but I did a DARN good job up here.'

KU has been really good for me. I learned a lot more independence and more about who I am as in individual by being up here. Being in a long distance relationship has helped David and I discover ourselves and has strengthened our committment the way nothing else could've. I've made lasting friendships and great memories. I worked my butt off and I feel like I accomplished something. I'll miss the gorgeous campus, the school pride up here, and my friends (particularly my roommate/BM S). I think my friend J said it perfectly:

"Thank you KU!! You have tested me, made me cry, taken away many hours of sleep, and even made me hate you at times. But, you have also given me some of my best friendships and most wonderful memories. Because of you I am a better person and I will always love you for that! Rock Chalk Jayhawk!!"

Congratulations to everyone else graduating this weekend! We made it!