Completing 3 Years

Ever have one of those days where something comes to mind that does not normally. Today I had a strange inclination to check the mail. I normally have little use for wondering down to that blue metal box; it is always just another bill, or notice, or some ad destined for recycling. However today for some reason I felt the need to go down early and check. Sure enough something more interesting was waiting for me today, my 2 Diplomas and Certificate from my past 3 years of school.

I have to admit I am pretty pleased with completing this last 3^rd year. This was not my first time though school, I had previously taken several years of Kinesiology. I lived out of town and although those around me made me feel welcome, the loss of my father half way through caused me to wish to move back. I always slightly regretted that choice, as although I completed what I had wanted to achieve, another year would have given me a diploma over my certificate. I have always felt a little off about never getting everything I could have.

Last year I completed my two year design diploma, and I was very pleased with achieving that goal. However I chose to try to add to my knowledge base by entering school for a 3^rd year. After  some rearranging of classes, it worked out that I had moved into full time classes. The combined 3 year total would give me an advanced diploma so I desided to hold my breath and give it a try. Although the advanced delpma intrigued me, the 3^rd year combined the web development program including ASP.net, Ruby on Rails, Yii and other concepts that I was to be honest, intimated to try. In entering this last year however it got me to push my comfort zone, try new things, and become I believe a better designer, photographer and programmer.

Looking back the entire program has been a blast. I remember rolling up to the campus 3 years ago on a warm August rainy day to submit my application.

I always take notes of times like those, whether traveling, starting a new job, or anything that I know will impact my life in a significant way. During school I also tried to look past the stress and enjoy where I was as I know I will look back on it fondly. As Andy Bernard said on the finale of the office just last night. “I wish there was a way to know you were in the good old days while you were in them”

Throughout this program I have been exposed to technology’s, art, photography, design. Many things I know my father would have loved to be a part of. I think he would have been happy today to see the advanced diploma on my table.