It’s official, folks! I have graduated! I walked across the stage two weeks ago, had the party last weekend, and now it’s time to get into the real world!

But before I get into the real world, I’d like to take a moment and say thank you to everyone who worked to help me make it through the last four years.

First and foremost, I’d like to thank my family. Without them, I honestly never would have gotten through college. Thank you for the pep talks, the love and support, and for schlepping me back and forth. I will never be able to repay you for all of the work you put into making sure I made it, even though I will spend the rest of my life trying.

To the professors, college would have been awful without your weird projects, your crazy deadlines and your friendships. There were nights that I was cursing you, but I’m so grateful for the opportunities you guys worked so hard to give us, and I had a great time trying to live up to your expectations. Thank you for setting me on the path to continue learning for the rest of my life, and giving me the skills I need to get started on my path forward.

To the friends I made at WCU, you guys are great. Whether I met you before school even started, or I met you during this past year, I’m so grateful for your friendship and love.  To the friends from home that stuck with me through the last four years, you guys rock! You guys all made my life so much more interesting and fun than it would have been solo, and I’m so glad I met every single one of you! I can’t wait to see all the shenanigans that you get up to in the future, and I can’t wait to share mine with you!

Here’s to the future!