I Did It.

I never thought I would make it this far in my education. Through multiple obstacles, I can finally say, I graduated college.

The Obstacles

I Did It. I spent 19 years on my education. Since I was diagnosed with dyslexia since kindergarten my family found ways to support me in my education. I went to after school tutors and took special classes in school while others kids got to enjoy “fun” activities that I found way more interesting. I grew envy.

But never will I doubt the work ethic of my teachers, coaches, and tutors. I’ve been pushed to my limits and only came out stronger. School was a serious struggle for me especially after being diagnosed with Graves Disease in 6th grade. I felt so far behind and overwhelmed constantly. But again my teachers gave me mercy and provided me support through the most difficult time of my life.

Once I hit 8th grade (as well depression and anxiety), I felt there was no way I could finish school. I had no hope I could make it through high school. Though I graduated with honors and even played 3 sports. And now I am here. I graduated college with a major in Business Entrepreneurship and a minor in communication while earning the title magna cum laude. Never did I think it was possible and even on the day before walking the stage I broke down not believing I had made it this far.

To My Supporters

To some specific loved ones I have some things to say.

Maddie,

You are the best big sister any little girl could have. You always protected me and allowed me to be vulnerable. You taught me to chase my goals no matter my doubts. Thank you for guiding me in these sucky years of being in my 20s and having no clue what I am supposed to do with my life. Also you are an amazing teacher/coach, you made a way for me to understand anything and everything I asked about, even when I could not explain it myself. I know it can be challenging to teach me. You are my safe place. Never will I forget you teaching me how to spike serve a volleyball (though you never played) and the next day was my first time spike serving at the game. I hit that ball so damn hard it went flying out the court. We obviously did not get the point, but I never felt so powerful. Thank you.

Mom and Dad,

Y’all never let me feel stupid, even with all my challenges, you guys were there to tell me it’s going to be okay. I felt SO lost in middle school and you guys did everything you could to find a solution. Who would have thought it was an actual disease messing me up like that!? You reminded me of the reasons why to keep moving forward and would stay up incredibly late at night to comfort me while I finished my homework (or my mental breakdown). Dad, I will never forget your dedication to my health. After being cured, at 6AM every morning, you would lift up my head, bring a glass of water to my mouth, and feed me my thyroid pill that became my responsibility to take everyday for the rest of my life. I hated waking up early, but it became more of a cherished moment overtime. Thank you. And Mom. I was such a b*tch to you and I truly regret my selfish actions. But again and again you gave me mercy. I understand now how incredibly hard that is to do. I want to thank you for your sacrifices, such as picking me up from school, taking me to my appointments, and being honest with me. I’m blessed to have a mom that helped me understand the whole “mean girl” situation before it could really affect me. To my parents, thank you for lifting me up and not allowing me to quit on myself (even when I pushed back). I love yall so much.

And finally, to my tutors, teachers, and coaches. I love you guys. The way I take your teachings into my adult life is a gift. Having that support was such a blessing and I will always be thankful God gave me such wonderful people in my life to help me pursue education and sports in a way I once did not believe possible. I now find a love for teaching others and helping with compassion. You guys allowed me to show my insecurities and really work with me to be better. And if you're reading this, just know I truly do appreciate you and your support. (There is a reason we are friends on Facebook). Thank you.

The Take Away

So here is the ending and what every kid going through the education system should know.

1. GRADES WILL NEVER DEFINE YOUR TRUE CHARACTER.

2. BE OPEN TO FINDING HELP.

3. EDUCATION IS IMPORTANT, BUT SO ARE EXPERIENCES.

4. DO NOT GET LOST IN TRYING TO PROVE YOURSELF.

5. KNOW YOU CAN DO IT.

This is was a huge accomplishment for myself and my family. I really want to emphasize how I am so appreciative and thankful for all the support I had during my educational journey. Thank you and God bless.