Graduation, The Overall Experience

We finally come to a close on the 2025-2026 academic year, and the time to post my final blog as the graduate student blogger. I have to say that graduate school was a great experience. I learned so much about my field of study and was open to many opportunities. I started this journey of higher education as a first-generation student, with no context or expectations for what undergrad and grad life would be like. Now that I’m finally graduating after seven consecutive years of being at JMU, I feel like I’m ready to take the next step.  

As I eagerly await donning the black robe and attending the commencement alongside my cherished colleagues, I’ve realized that this final semester has been the most different and difficult one to maneuver through in my whole academic career. The challenges that come with developing my capstone and accurately integrating my internships have been tough, and I’m sure my fellow grad students have been feeling the heat over the past few weeks. But those years of hard work are worth it, walking across the stage.  

I entered graduate school, wanting to learn more about my field and I came out of it with so much more. I discovered more about myself, what contributions I want to make to my field, and where I want to take my career. In my case, I still have a long way to go, but I feel like I now have a solid foundation to do anything I set my mind to. 

After speaking with so many graduate students for the various stories that I have written, I recognize how hard you all work and would like to offer my hearty congratulations to my fellow 2026 graduates! 

As for me, moving forward has been a bit nerve-racking, I won’t lie, but thanks to the support of my professors, colleagues, and coworkers here at The Graduate School and the WRTC Program, I feel confident about my abilities as a professional writer. I was lucky to have secured a job that I will begin right after graduation as an editor. I can say that I am very excited and feel well prepared for this role and future ambitions.  

I know our time together as writer and reader has been short, but I want to thank you for following me on this journey. I wish you all the best in your academic journeys!