Celebrate the Moment, Even if it Seems Small!

I recently walked in my fourth commencement. Some people were wondering why, since I already have a baccalaureate degree in business from Assumption College. An associates degree is not as big a deal.

I disagreed.

My road to walking for my degree was eight years long. Due to circumstances that took my focus away, I could not get back to school. When I finally woke up and took control, my life was in pieces around me. Thanks to my parents help, I got readmitted to Housatonic and finally declared a major in Accounting. In two years, I completed five courses that were not transferred from my previous degree.

Of course, this was done while working two full tax seasons, having my car damaged three times (and in the shop for five weeks each time), and nursing a burned hand from one of the accidents.

Despite these setbacks, I graduated with membership in the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, an award for Outstanding Achievement in Accounting and high honors. I have worked for a CPA for two years and backed up my studies with practical experience. Unlike the last graduation, I have a job already in the field of study and don't need to find a place to live.  This degree was more practical for where I am now.

Thus, I did not see this latest chapter as so minor that I could just wait for the diploma. I felt that I deserved my moment in the spotlight for juggling a job and studies. My parents, family and significant other all supported me and they deserved to see the result of their efforts.

So I will proudly display my diploma, honors cord, PTK stoll, and membership certificate. It may not be a big degree like a masters, but quality is always more valued than quantity. I will know that, although it took eight years to get me to the arena with a cap and gown, I got there and made my mark. If someone sees it and is inspired to take the same route, I will have found yet another reason for letting myself celebrate the moment.