For four years I have yearned for my college degree and now I have finally earned it. Looking back, I wonder why I wished my life away. The years I spent at Chatham were amazing. I met new people who gave me different perspectives on life and I made long lasting friendships. Chatham gave me the opportunity to travel the world and gave me hands-on experience in and out of the classroom. The life of only worrying about making it to class, studying for exams, and writing papers are quickly coming to an end. Late nights hanging out with friends at the Woodland Coffee Bar will soon become a part of my past. The real world will soon be a reality. At the beginning of the academic year I couldn’t wait for graduation day and now that it is almost here I just pray that the days go slowly so I can savor my last moments of college. I am going to miss all the people that I became close with as they branch off into new opportunities or stay here at Chatham. I never understood why seniors were sad when they left school because when I graduated from high school the only emotion I felt was pure joy to finally move one with my life!
When I look back at my years at Chatham all I can think of is how I will miss this place, the people, the buildings, and the community. I might even shed a tear at graduation! When I entered college I was only 18 and I will graduate at the age of 22. A lot has happened in those years from becoming a girl who was not fully formed in any thoughts, ideas or goals to a world ready woman.
As much as I would like to stay an undergraduate forever I realize I need to make room for the class of 2012 so they can make memories that will last a lifetime. Incoming students please enjoy your time and savor every moment you have at Chatham because before you know it you will be wearing the cap and gown. To the class of 2012, good luck, enjoy, goodbye!
Vanessa
