I’m A Grad, Baby!
From the bleachers!
One of a few keepsake photos xo
The moment I finally saw John and my family, haha
May 12th, 2026. Graduation Day for Summer and Fall 2025 semesters and Spring 2026 at Reynold’s Community College.
Finished my courses over the summer, just didn’t get to walk til now. It’ll be 15 years next month since I’ve walked across the stage at the Siegel Center… still feels surreal to say that. Even more surreal is what I’ve accomplished, even if its just an associates degree. I was with someone for a very long time that, for the entirety of our relationship, prevented me in every way to continue my education. But I did it, and I’m still trying to settle into this position as a collegiate alum. Women across the world are held back constantly by a world that already judges them before they even speak. I still said “fuck you” and got it done.
I really am proud of myself, I think its just been hard for me to put into words when I’m just not finished with my journey… the associates degree was just the beginning. And honestly? I kinda miss my 3am test submissions, getting A’s the first day they’re available, making sure to stay as far ahead as possible.
I guess that’s just what you do when you love what you do. I never stopped, and I can’t stop now. I won’t.
Still fucking salty that they didn’t put my floral design certification recognition in the program, but whatever… at least I graduated with honors hehe.
So… what’s next, you ask? Well, I’ve already begun the draft on my scholarship essays for Virginia State University and I’d really like to go back this fall, or try for next year. I know I have to give myself these moments of celebration, I’m just itching for more. The abundance I’ve been receiving lately has put a fire under me that I didn’t think I’d get back this year.
Slow and steady wins the race, Mel. It doesn’t mean I’m failing, it just means I’m on my own path. I can’t wait for grad photos this Saturday, too, taken by a wonderful person I’ve been happy to call a friend these past few years.
Regardless of the struggles I’ve endured, I fucking finished it. And its only the beginning.
From my sister. “You have brains in your head, you have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”
My love, my cheerleader
Flowers Edward picked out for me, in a vase given to me by my best friend <3