Who said it wasn’t possible?
After placing myself in different environments that only lessened my opinion of myself, I began to believe life would be a continuous journey of bad luck and failures. Little did I know, that deciding to go back to college to do an access to Higher Education course, would change all that.
All I wanted to do was work hard enough to get to university in order to study English and Drama. I wanted to push myself in the direction of becoming a teacher.
After a year of being back in the classroom at Sunderland College, I began to feel hopeful. Even more so when I received two unconditional offers to both the University of Sunderland and Northumbria University.
Being a single parent, I had to think on my feet and fast. Do plan a? Or do plan b? I decided to be brave and merge the two, choosing to study English AND Drama at the University of Sunderland as they had a course to accomodate my needs.
Throughout my time at UoS, I have faced many obstacles that have interfered with my studies and I have had to soldier through in order to not lose focus. Luckily, having the opportunity to be a part of the study abroad adventure, changed my outlook on life and my entire perspective on the importance of certain things and matters.
Doors were opened; as were my eyes. I would advise and encourage anyone thinking of doing it, to take full advantage of exploring another country. It strengthens adaptibility and communication skills. Both extremely vital within employment and everday life.
Towards the latter end of my third year, graduation was fast approaching and reality hit. Not only did I manage to get into university, I was lucky to study in America for my second year, become part of the team at Spectral Visions Press (which wouldn’t be possible without the encouragement of such great teachers) in my third year, and actually hurdle my way over the finish line (as short as I am).
A celebration which lasted a few weeks, my friends and I, still haven’t quite finished being excited over becoming UoS Alumni. I think the party - although it was a small one - will be neverending.
With the support of family and friends, I was able to stand without collapsing, so that I could enjoy what was such an amazing day.
The glam dresses came out, sensible heels were chosen to prevent an embarrassing fall at the Stadium of Light and tears were shed over champagne.
Throughout the day, moments hit me where I would be overcome with emotion at the fact that I was about to shake the chancellors hand and receive my BA Honours in English and Drama. After people from my past behaved in a way that indicated I was less than them, I was proud to be able to salute them with my middle finger. Just incase you are reading this: You have never been better than me, I was never less than you and knowing where you are now whilst I have graced a stage in a graduating gown, I can safely say that I know you were threatened by me. Putting me down helped you to feel better about yourself, but who’s laughing now? I only hope you find comfort in your lives where you don’t have to belittle or threaten others, just to be happy.
To be honest, I will go as far to say that these three years of study have quite easily been the best years of my life. I have made some friends that I will take forward with me and to those that I will not see much of, know that you have also had an impact on my life and will remain a part of my memories.
Graduation day was made extra special however, as I was able to share the day with two friends from college who happened to be receiving their BA Honours the same day!
I have my best friends who will be like family to me to my dying day, but there is nothing quite like the friends you make whilst at college/university. You take a journey together, a journey that betters your life and only they can relate to that! I love all of you guys!!!
Being able to share such a celebration is something that cannot be replaced. I only wish English and Drama could have graduated together :-( Clara Leask, Georgia Greaves, Donna Marie, Michelle Tyson, Siobhan Varty and Natalie Goode, I love you girls. That goes to the other drama students too. Congratulations guys!!!
However, the Stadium couldn’t hold us forever and we all parted ways to continue our celebration with family and I was lucky to be surrounded by so many! My family have been a constant support and I don’t think I’d be where I am now without them. I don’t get to tell you guys much, but every comment you make, all your words of encouragement, mean so much. It’s having love like that around me that makes me push forward even more. I do it for me, but I also do it for us! So thank you to all of you and to those who celebrated with me!
Allowing yourself to be an inspiration for someone is so rewarding. Knowing you’re able to help someone to possibly achieve their goals or make a change they never had the courage to do before, creates a peace within and makes you a better person. If I can only influence one person throughout my life, to better theirs then I have succeeded. We should all follow our dreams and aspire to better our lives. We’re here once in this life and should grab every opportunity when it’s available. Regrets are certainly the thing I want to acknowledge the least at the end of my life and so, I’ll keep grinding!
Here’s to graduating, class of 2015!!!!!
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