obtain my degree

Going back to school was both frightening and exhilarating. I went back for personal fulfillment and while there were plenty of times when the light at the end of the tunnel seemed beyond reach, I can finally say that I did it.

I know that getting AUNT SALLIE of my back will take triple the time that it took to accomplish this goal and I might have to remind myself that this was worth (that I am worth) the investment but it feels great to realize a dream of this magnitude!

And with this new found freedom and wad full of time I can now concentrate on reading for pleasure, enjoying my marriage, leisurely time with friends and family, snail mail, FRENCH FRIDAYS, running, Sunday cook-a-thons, spontaneous weeknight outings- A LIFE!!!

I am finished with all of my classes, have my graduation tickets and cap and gown, and have officially started to count down.

Although it took a lot for me to actually get up the nerve, I called my father and invited him to come. I’ve realized that I have spent a good part of my life giving and I need some recognition from my family, my father in particular, for my achievements. I am happy to say that he pulled through and is arriving the day of the ceremony.

School has taken up so much of my time and energy. Since I will be crossing this off in a matter of days, I can start working on my other 40 things.

I received notice that I have been named a University Honors scholar for maintaining a gpa of 3.5 or higher. I should be receiving my Founders Day Certificate and honors tassel in the coming weeks.

I am not sure if I am also eligible for Latin honors (if they include this semesters credits then I will have the 64 credits necessary) but this recognition is enough. I am proud of myself, it has taken a lot of hard work and dedication (and practically no social life because of my work/school schedule) but it was all worth it in the end.

I have just cleared the major hurdle (passing my colloquium) so all that is left is writing a couple of term papers. I will not be making it to the school wide graduation – trekking it to the Bronx to sit at Yankee Stadium with 5,000 other students for a minimum of 4 hours is not appealing. I will make it to the Gallatin ceremony and cannot wait to hear my name called as I walk across the stage. I am sure I will be a sobbing mess- such angst- such an accomplishment- it will be bitter sweet.

I am entering my final semester after 4 very challenging years of studying/ working full time. I have only 9 credits to complete so at least the load will be light- but BOY has senioritis kicked in. I start on Tuesday and am not the least bit motivated. The courses I registered for are definitely up my alley so I hope to get back get into the groove by the end of the week.

I will be graduating in May 2008- and am studying abroad this fall in gay old Paris!!!