The day that I have been waiting for for a very long time has finally come. I am officially a graduate of Montclair State University! First and foremost, I have to give all of the glory to God. Without my faith in God, I don’t think I would’ve made it academically, emotionally, physically, and mentally throughout my time at MSU. College is a beautiful experience that gives you the opportunity to grow as an individual. It gives you the room to formulate your own opinions, ideas, and beliefs without the pressure of your parents/caregivers. However, I’ve also learned that college is not for those who genuinely do not want to pursue that route.
Attending college came with a lot of highs, but some lows also accompanied my experience. There were times where I thought to myself, “I don’t think I can do this anymore” or “there is no way I am passing this class.” Now, all I can say is praise God because despite my fears, insecurities, doubts, and worries, He brought me through. He split this red sea so I could walk on dry ground. Thank you, Lord! You will always get the glory in my life.
I can’t continue this blog without thanking my mother, Jesula Desir. After God, my mom has been nothing but supportive throughout my years at MSU. She was able to send not just me but my sister off to college all on her own. It was extremely tough financially because bills still needed to be paid (a mortgage doesn’t just disappear on its own), and everyday essentials were still necessary for us to live a well-balanced life. I remember during my senior year of high school while I was applying to colleges where I thought that I shouldn’t even attend college because I didn’t want to add another burden on my mother’s shoulders. Guess what? My mother did not let that happen. Although we didn’t have the money, she encouraged me to keep applying. No matter what it took, she made sure that I attended college and attended the college of my choice without hesitation. Once again, my mom showed me that she is a superwoman. She made it happen and for that, mommy, I thank you. Thank you for showing me that despite my doubts, what I aspired to do was more than possible. I love you and promise to always give you my best!
I also want to thank my friends and family for never giving up on me when I was more than ready to give up on myself. Their words of encouragement and prayers are what got me through my most challenging days. There were times where I became very discouraged and could no longer speak life into myself. However, the words of my family and friends quickly reminded me of the God that I serve and that I was more than capable of passing my courses despite what my situation looked like. Friends and family, I want to thank you for your endless support. Thank you for being the shoulders I cried on and for your countless prayers. May God reward you for your faithfulness to me and for the love that you’ve shown me all these years.
Last but not least, thank you, Montclair State University, for being my home for the past six years. The first time I stepped foot on the beautiful campus, I knew that this is where I wanted to attend and further my education. I commuted throughout all my years at MSU and not once was I made to feel less than a resident student. I received the same opportunities as those who chose to reside on campus. I never felt unsafe or unheard. Although I didn’t know everyone who attended the university, there was always someone I connected to, whether it be my fellow classmates, employees, or bosses.
I have to give a shout-out to my Commuter Assistant Mentorship Program (My CAMP family). They made my last year at MSU exceptional. If it weren’t for this program, I wouldn’t have met the beautiful souls that I got the opportunity to meet. They are the reason I can say that I left MSU with a family to go back to. Antonio and Emily, thank you for giving me a chance to be a part of something great. Even though I had to interview from my bedroom because of this pandemic, you still got a sense of who I was and chose me to lead the future leaders of MSU. For that, I am forever grateful. I wish you both and the rest of the CAMP family nothing but the best. You all deserve it and more.
Well, that’s all from me, ladies and gents. I know it’s been a while since I’ve written a blog post so I want to express my gratitude to each of you for your patience and support thus far. You are appreciated and loved by me. Now that this chapter of my life has closed, I cannot wait to see what else God has in store for me. Although I am uncertain of what lies ahead, continue on this journey with me. I have a feeling it’s going to be fun, Until next time guys!