finish college

My last final in ‘Seminar in Stategic Business Management’ was yesterday. Twelve long years later, and I am finally a college graduate. Yay…just in time for the devaluation of degrees thanks to the current economic state. That’s okay, though, since I’ve always kind of felt that my work experience has been more valuable to me over the past several years. I did this…because I wanted it.

So, that one measly capstone class that I needed to take this quarter to be an “official” graduate was full. I added to the waiting list of one of the classes and was 9th on the waiting list. Thanks to stupid state school politics and funding, most of the teachers were laid off and the school did not offer enough sessions of this course to correspond with the number of graduating seniors who would be required to take it this quarter. Unfortunately, I did not make it into the class and do not want to waste my entire summer (not to mention, the tuition cost and the $200 book for the course) hoping that 9 people drop the course at some point so that I can get in and receive credit for event taking the class.

Totally discouraging. Remind me again, why did I drop everything to come back to school full time? Guess I will just try to keep myself occupied until I can get into the course for the Winter Session. I’m gonna try for the Fall Session too, but there’s a good chance I won’t be able to complete the course as I have some travel planned. Luckily, I’ve managed to squeeze in some fun things while I’m able to.

Graduation walk ceremony was this past Sunday. I did not attend, by choice. After 12 years of working and studying for one class at a time, I’ve decided to quit my job and return full time to get it over with. Now that I’m not working, I’ve decided to save my money on the cap and gown and treat myself to something I really enjoy. Instead, I went to a graduation BBQ for a friend and just relaxed. At this point, I almost feel like the whole graduation ceremony is more for families who like the production. Not mine. They’re aware that I’m finally getting my BS degree and I’m sure they all think I should have my phD by now.

Anyway, I officially have one more class to go to finish up the entire undergrad process: Seminar in Business. I am 14th on the waitlist, and am hoping that either some people drop or we get a larger classroom. If I don’t get into this class I’m going to be stuck commuting to school through the Fall, all because they’re not offering enough required courses in respect to the number of graduating seniors. It’s their way of milking us for more money. Guess I’ll just cross my fingers.

Other than that, I’m pretty darn excited about the whole thing being over with.

Okay, so finals are over. I’ve registered to go full time both during the Summer and Fall sessions. This is going to be rough, as I just started a new job too. So much to do, so little time. I’ve attempted a full time schedule of night classes before and that didn’t work out so great. I think I am more focused this time (no boyfriend to distract me). I’ll cross my fingers and hope I make it through with a passing grade. I just want to get it over with already so that when people at work as me what school I went to, I don’t have to tell them that I’m still going.

I am definitely on the ten year plan…possibly more, but I will finish if it kills me (and it just might). I’ve registered for 12 units in the Summer and 13.5 units in the Fall. It’s been a while since I’ve been able to handle a full courseload since I also work more than full time during the week. After trying to figure out how long it’s going to take me to finish at the rate I’m currently going, I’m suddenly motivated to try to take more classes. Hopefully I don’t burn out too bad, but I just want it to be over already.