Class of 2012: Masters Degree! Don't you want '1 2?

I am officially done with my graduate program!! Receiving my Masters degree is something I have been working towards for 5 years. I have not had many big goals in my life but those that I have had, I have been fortunate and blessed enough to accomplish. Now I have this lingering question, ‘What next?’ I cannot remember the last time I had nothing really to work towards.

When I was a child I wanted to be a dancer and if I couldn’t be a dancer I still wanted to have the ability to dance. I couldn’t think about living without my passion. Well I teach dance and am a Zumba Instructor. I also take class when I can. CHECK!!

As I approached my middle school years my goal was to attend Spellman H.S. More so for the fact that they had a well-known and respected Drama Club. Not only was I accepted to my top high school but I enjoyed every moment dancing and acting on that stage. I still refer to those days as the best time of my life. CHECK!!

Graduating high school I didn’t want to go to college but did not have a choice (thanks dad and mom). During college I always had this feeling of wanting to do more with my life. It was as though being ‘average’ was just not enough. I remained in dance and I was involved on campus but I wanted more! Well after growing up during these years I realized where I would get my “more” from and that was to become a counselor and help others.

As my mom liked to say to me, “You put all your eggs in one basket!” Yes mom, I did. I applied to one graduate school and one graduate school only. I got in. And though I learned so much from being there I felt as though I needed to switch my path. Once again I applied to a graduate program and one graduate program only. I got in. And after 4 years of doubt, struggle, tears, stress, and anxiety I can finally say: “I Made It!”    

Masters Degree: CHECK!!!!

I have a type A personality. I live off of plans. I am approaching the new chapter in my life without one. Let’s see how this goes…

Acknowledgement: None of this could have been possible without Team Torres. I love you with all my heart. Thank you for all your support and love. I can never express how truly blessed I am to have you all in my life.