The Graduate

Three years ago I was contacted by BYU-I about their pilot program for people to finish their degrees online.  At the time I had just committed to a three year term on our HOA board of directors and was serving as the YW president; but, I felt very strongly that this was the time for me to do this. Tom was graduating from High School and the girls were all very self-sufficient so I took the plunge and now three years, 49 credits, and 7 semesters later I walked for my graduation!  I learned so much and in many ways I think I have a greater appreciation for the knowledge that I've gained.  My degree is in University Studies with a double minor in English and family studies with a cluster in communications. I now know how to diagram sentences while applying my new parenting skills in a paper I write and edit about how it affects our individual relationships through communicating effectively! I was amongst the oldest of the graduates to walk in graduation, but I was also one of the most supported!  President Clarke talked about how grateful we should be to our parents that have helped to make our education possible.  I not only had parents but a husband and four kids that all helped me make it through and for that I am VERY grateful!  

Emma, Tom, Me, Jeff, Marissa and Katie

Commencement was held in the new I-Center, modeled after the conference center in SLC.  President Clark spoke to the graduates about the great futures that lie ahead and how our education will become instrumental in achieving great things.  Our graduating class was the largest in BYU-I history with 1,657 graduates.

Elder Ballard spoke about how the Lord will bless this graduating class with prosperity because of the need to continue to build temples, meetinghouses and to further the work. We must remember to be consecrated in our efforts to continue to help in building the kingdom in these last days.

Convocation for the University Studies students was in the Kirkham auditorium.

Yes, it is very glamorous to wear these funny hats and robes that could double as a tent.

So here is the moment of truth...will she be able to walk across the stage with out tripping and falling?  I am waiting here as my name is read.  Behind me is my friend Ramona Montgomery who had several classes with me over the last three years.  We both entered the program at the same time.  It was kind of funny to finally meet after our many emails, text messages and phone conversations.

Yes - I made it from point A to point B with out falling or breaking down in tears of joy!  Here I receive my special diploma cover, which I take into a death grip.  Diploma to be delivered in 6-8 weeks upon review on my final semester classes.

Here you can see how easily I could have hidden the kitchen sink under my robe.  No one would have ever known!

So here is the happy grad - on the verge of tears and putting on the brave smile!!  "I did it!" was all I could think at this point.  The camera missed my hug from my literature teacher, Sister Traci Willburn.  I didn't actually invite her but I was glad to have a member of faculty to cheer me on!

This is my welcome into the Alumni association.

Exiting from the Kirkham.

Remember those proud parents that made graduation possible?  Thanks Mom and Dad!

Officially Graduated with Diploma Cover in hand.

 

 

 

 

 

AND...5 weeks later...the actual diploma arrived!