One year ago today, my class graduated from high school. We graduated in a way no other class ever has. There were seven of us in each group, and each person could only bring two guests. Then, there was a parade that evening, and graduates lined Main Street in our little town, as people drove the block, honking and cheering. This was unheard of before. But sometimes I only see life in two stages. Before and after the world changed. It seems that before was just yesterday, but sometimes it’s like a distant memory, years in the makes. Today, I look back at the good and bad times, and I’ll answer some of the most popular questions graduates (both from high school and college) are asked after the one year anniversary of their commencement.

1. How was I feeling at this time one year ago?

Well, I know the night before I was feeling very nervous. That could be because I was thinking about tripping on stage, or saying something dumb, or even thinking that people would not like my salutatorian speech. I was feeling quite calm that morning, however. I was feeling sad, but excited and hopeful at the same time.

2. What have you been doing in the mean time?

I have been taking classes at a local community college, working, and in my free time, I enjoy reading, writing, and spending time with friends, family, and my animals.

3. What advice do you have for those graduating this year?

Enjoy the last few days before graduation. It may not seem like it, but every thing changes after you receive your diploma. If there is something you want to do, then do it! Life is too short for you to let others tell you that you can or can’t do something.

Tell me your favorite school or college memory!

I’ll add a few photos from my graduation below.