UMGC Grad Walk in Maryland
I’d like to share a motivational speech I wrote while taking a professional development class back in 2021.
I decided to pursue college because I wanted a future for myself. Yes, money is a factor, but I wanted independence from my family, and I needed to prove to myself that I am capable of anything. I learned that I’m stronger than what I think. I’ve been battling this thing for almost 8 years… It has been a constant struggle but I get back up on my feet every time. One attitude I used to have was if something was really difficult, I would think that it’s not meant to be. That is not the case. A friend once told me, “If you want it bad enough, you’ll find a way,” and that has stuck with me ever since.
Business Administration… I choose this program because another man once told me that if I love my job, I will never work a day in my life. That man is my step-father, and he is one my life-long mentors. What I find interesting about this degree is that it unlocks plenty of avenues in life. Not only does it teach you how to maneuver it, but it also helps nurture relationships of all kinds. After I finish my degree, I hope to find contentment and peace. I finally achieved what I’ve been trying to finish for the past 8 years of my life.
Seven weeks ago, I had a different perspective. I thought I knew everything and I defined my worth as what I achieved so far. But after seeing a speech by Andrea Ayala Stull, I can say that “my circumstance does not define my worth”. Going to school isn’t always about learning and memorizing, it is what you make out of it. You’ll find professors who are there to teach, and you’ll find professors who are there to touch your life and make an impact. I look forward to meeting more professors like this, and I’m thankful that I already met one.
Last week, I flew to Maryland to participate in Grad Walk at UMGC (University of Maryland Global Campus). It took me approximately six extra years to get my Bachelor’s due to being a first-generation college student. My mother, brother, and I migrated to the US when I was 17. Because of this, I had to figure things out on my own.
I tried to decorate my cap, as I’ve seen plenty of graduates do that. It’s still a work in progress, but I plan on posting it once it’s done.
I’d gotten a one-bedroom basement via Airbnb, and utilized Turo for a vehicle. I honestly was very anxious about this day, and when there were only a few days left, I was panicky and relieved at the same time.
I wasn’t sure what to expect, but when I arrived in Maryland I found it cold. My overpreparation was highly justified, seeing as I lived in a state that contained no temperature variety.
As I waited in line to be called to walk, I met the President of the school, Dr. Gregory Fowler. One of the staff urged me to take a photo with the President when he saw me staring at him for a long time. It felt surreal. He was a celebrity to me, and I finally was able to meet him.
They played videos on the screen which I believe were the commencement ceremony videos, the links to those are below.
Here’s the link to the Grad Walk video.
Here’s the link to the online commencement gallery.
My advisor told me that I’d love myself more when one day I’d wake up, finished with my degree. Although today I can proudly say that I’ve finally attained it, I feel like I’m not done yet. As I turn to finish this chapter of my life, I am thrilled to start the next one.
Well, it doesn’t matter as long as you have now, and congrats on the degree. You did well and I’m sure everyone is proud of you.
Congratulations on your graduation and it’s one of the most wonderful events in your life. Hope you had a great time and made tons of memories.
I find your speech quite engaging. I was hooked while reading the same. Congratulations on completing your degree!
Congrats on your achievement! The time will prove to be well spent- you have a solid future ahead of you.
I very much appreciate that. Thank you!
What a fantastic achievement! It took me 5 years to get my Bachelor’s because I changed majors 3 times. Definitely participate in all of the events around the graduation and enjoy basking in your success!
I changed my majors 3 times as well. I went from Nursing, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, then I finally settled with Business Admin. Thank you so much!
I’m sure that a big milestone. Congratulations!
“my circumstance does not define my worth” This is so true and a lot of people get it confused. Congratulations on what you’ve achieved!
Thank you so much!
First Congratulations! I am so excited and proud of your hard work and perseverance. This truly shows you that you are strong and are capable of anything!
We are all capable of anything we put our mind to. Thank you so much!
Big, big congratulations on your achievement! That’s absolutely fantastic!
Thank you so much, Beth! It was very exciting!
Congratulations on the degree. Your stepfather sounds like he gives wise advice. 🙂
Thank you! And yes, he does. I’m very lucky to have him!