Graduation Reflections

Yesterday, I officially became a college graduate.  As I think back on the past 4.5 years, I’ve come to realize how far I’ve come, and how much I’ve learned – both in my field and in life in general.  I’d like to pass on a few thoughts and lessons I try to live by:

• Don’t let stress get the best of you.  Worrying gets you nowhere, especially if you are worrying about things you cannot control.
• Every problem has a solution.  If there isn’t a solution, it’s not a problem.
• Trust is a truly wonderful thing.  Once you find someone you can completely trust, keep that person close.  Never, ever, betray someone’s trust in you.
• Keep the golden rule in mind in everything you do: “What thou avoidest suffering thyself seek not to impose on others.”  – Epictetus
• It’s amazing what four people locked in a computer lab overnight can create.
• You never know which choices you make today will affect you later on.
• Homemade meals are infinitely better than store-bought.
• Use good grammar everywhere – whether in person, in an e-mail, in a chat, or in a text.  You’ll be surprised how well-spoken you will become, without even realizing it.  In time, it will become second nature to you.
• True friends will be there for you always, through your worst times and your best times.
• Sometimes, the best thing you can do for someone is simply listen to them.
• Life isn’t always fair, but karma always seems to make things right.
• Ignorance is not a sin.  Never be afraid to admit you don’t know something.  Ask questions.
• Do something crazy from time to time.  Leaving your comfort zone from time to time will give you new (and often amazing) experiences.