May 11, 2009

Well, it's over. We did it! I did it. The seniors graduated. I really wish that I could have blogged during the ceremony. And believe me, it lasted long enough that I could have written more than one blog.

The good thing is, I graduated. I was so nervous the night before and rushing to get everything in place because I had to wake up so early.

I couldn't sleep, though, because I kept thinking I was missing something!

Luckily, there was only one bad. And that was the fact that we had to stay in the parking garage for an hour in the hot, humid weather. All the girls were devastated about their hair. I mean, I don't think I've seen so many frizzy heads in one place! But we all kept telling each other, "Hey, at least it's not raining today." And for that, I was very glad.

Finally, we started moving and began our march across the seal. I danced over the seal. I think everyone around me was pretty jealous because it was a practiced and rehearsed dance, with a few Steve Urkel moves thrown in. It was neat to look back and see a huge wave of black robes and caps. It was almost like being in a Harry Potter movie, but not quite.

While we were walking, people kept honking at us and then all the grads would start a yelling wave. I kept hearing loud "woooooos." Then I looked over and saw a girl crying, and it wasn't due to her frizzy hair.

She was already filled with emotion before we even got to the Ted!

Walking in the Ted was a weird experience. It was like, "Man, I can't believe this is the last time I'll walk in here." Luckily, I'm in the Arts and Letters College, so we got to go first! It was the greatest.

The ceremony began with an honored speaker. She was really entertaining and I enjoyed her speech. Basically, she told us to follow our dreams, and that hit home. Because if you don't follow your dreams, then what was the point of college?

And then the walking began. I was so excited waiting in line. I kept looking up in the stands to see my family, but I couldn't spot them. There were so many people there! Parents were waving their hands and jumping up and down. It was hilarious. I've never seen so many people so excited at one time.

And then … they called my name! I was super scared I was going to trip. Luckily, my boyfriend and a friend both reassured me by saying, "Make sure you don't fall." Wow. Thanks a lot. They certainly made me feel better. But I walked fine. And I got my diploma. It was like all eyes were on me. Of course they weren't, but it felt like it.

It felt so unreal, I don't even think it's hit me yet. I don't feel like I've graduated, you know? Afterwards, everyone gathered together and I met my parents, who gave me hugs and kisses. It was great. I felt really special and my friends and family were the cause of that.

But alas, it's over, my blogging friends. This is the last blog, as the journey has come to the end. I will sorely miss ODU and all my friends, but I can say that I had the time of my life. If I could do it again, I would. I'd probably do it 20 times over. I loved every part of college, and I hope those who are reading this can say the same.

Now, off to find a job and meet the real world! Wish me luck!!