Graduation 2012

It feels so weird to type this, but last night I graduated from high school. I put on a cap and gown, walked across the stage when they called my name, and threw my cap with my fellow graduates. Even though almost a day has passed, it still hasn't hit me yet.

Graduation Tent on the Front Lawn

It was a BEAUTIFUL spring day yesterday. We were really lucky, since it rained every other day this week. There was even a break in the humidity. We couldn't have asked for better weather.

Receiving My Diploma from the Head of School

There were three speakers last night. Two members of my class applied for and were chosen to be Honors Speakers, and a member of the Golden Class (1962) challenged us for the future. One of the Honor Speakers encouraged us to believe in ourselves. For the past four years, our parents have believed in us by sending us to this school, our teachers have believed in us by teaching, but now it is our turn to take a leap of faith and believe in ourselves. The second Honors Speaker compared life to a game of golf, and reminded us that every hole is a new start, and we should take advantage of what we can control in life: our attitude. Dr. Garrity, a member of the 1962 class, told us that we need to have courage in all of our endeavors.

About to Toss Our Caps

My graduating class had only 72 girls in it, so I knew everyone's name. We were a pretty close class, I think, and I know there are a handful of people I will keep in touch with. To the school, we will be remembered as a hard working, kind, silly, and stubborn group of girls, and I think that describes us perfectly.

KJ and Me

 I believe that it is truly the people at my high school who made it such a wonderful place for me. It was hard to say goodbye to all the people I have come to think of as family. Some members of the Junior Class works as our Honor Guard, and that was actually really reassuring to me. They are a great group of girls and will be awesome leaders next year. It is a little bit easier to leave knowing that the school is in good hands :)

My Aunt Carol (Who Graduated from SMC!) and Me

 I had six tickets to graduation, so my mother, stepfather, father, little sister, grandmother, and aunt came to celebrate with me. My little sister will be transferring to my school next year (YAY!), so I am glad that I will get to come back in three years for her graduation. I am also going to my aunt's college, Saint Michael's, so that is kind of neat!

In Front of the Sign

Overall, it was a beautiful day and a beautiful ceremony. I am sad to leave my second home, but feel so prepared. I am proud of all of my classmates, and can't wait to see what the future brings us.