Hey everyone and welcome back to the blog. It’s been awhile but you know what they say, life just gets in the way. I’ve done a post on all that I’ve been up to which you can read about here.
Today’s post is the long awaited conclusion to my Mature Student Guide – Graduation.
I can’t believe that I can actually say that I’ve finally graduated! I started my third level journey in 2014 and although I never thought it would take me this long, I finally did it! I’m immensely proud of myself for going through this journey and coming out the other end with a degree! So let me talk you through the graduating process and what plans I’ve got for the future.
The Preparation
My preparation for my graduation actually started a month and a half before my ceremony! After years of hesitating and putting it off, I finally bit the bullet and got botox! While I’m not advocating or encouraging anyone to get it or other cosmetic procedures done, I would say if you feel that something will make you feel more confident – do it! It is honestly the best thing I have ever done and am over the moon with the results.
Like every important occasion in life, a good outfit is always important! I wanted something stylish but not the classic blue/navy/grey suit as I think they’re a little stuffy and boring. I toyed with one of these stuffy suits until I found the suit I wore in Next of all places! I never even knew they had a tailoring range let alone the suit options they have! I settled for a light blue three piece suit as it was formal but also casual at the same time. I then did the usual things like booking my eyebrows and haircut before tanning as close as to the ceremony as my work schedule would allow!
With suit, tan, brows and frozen forehead secured, it was finally time for the big day! Being totally transparent, I wasn’t looking forward to the day as I hadn’t necessarily glued with anyone during my course and hadn’t really anything planned for after. I know these aren’t things to focus on but I have to say, I had a really good time! The immense pride I had in myself for being able to walk across that podium with a degree with my name on it (!!!!) is something I will never forget and will cherish forever! Of course I am forever grateful to my parents and those that are close to me in my life that encouraged me to go through the Mature Student Process and persevere and come out the other end!
What’s Next?
What’s next for me? I guess that’s the million dollar question…
Right after college, I just wanted to have fun with loved ones and make as many memories as possible and had one of the best Summers I have ever had. As Summer came and went, I realised I needed to put on my big boy pants and start focusing on the future and stop playing the role of Ireland’s worst Influencer.. I’ve started the hunt for my ”big boy job” and although I’ve been rejected numerous times, I firmly believe that what is meant for me won’t pass me. Now I am fully aware that this is not the easiest thing to believe and live by even on your darkest day, but it honestly gets you through life.
At the moment ,I’m in a job that I love but not in an industry that I see as a forever one for me. While I apply for jobs and see what is out there, one things for sure, I’m immensely proud of myself for getting where I am today.
Ones thing for sure, I’ve finished the end of a journey I started way back in 2014 and an incredibly excited for the start of the next journey, no matter how long it takes.
Til next time,
Conor x