These are the highlights for me from my college career. For the most part, these are just grouped by topic and aren’t in any sort of order. With graduation coming up in a little less than a month, I thought it would be fun to take a look back at some of the most memorable things I’ve done and photographed. Hopefully I’ll be able to continue my documentary-style photography with my future career. Until then, here are my favorite moments from university!
--
The day is finally here. After five and a half years of long nights and great memories, I've finally walked across the stage with a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering. And I’m not really sure what to think. It seems like just yesterday I was being dropped off at FAU for my first semester away from home planning to do something with cars and engineering. Now, I’m in UNF colors with the engineering degree but going in a totally different direction.
The ceremony itself was fun. Only nine ME’s graduated today, so we all sat right next to each other. The rest of the college’s graduates were CIS majors with a few construction management ones mixed in. The rain had rolled in overnight and was hammering the city when the sun rose. We had to be there early to get checked in; the monsoon soaked two of my friends completely. The call was given to begin the march into the arena, and it was quite a sight. I was expecting a smaller graduation than spring; this seamed just as big with friends and families stacked up to the nose bleed seats.
After the introductions and songs and whatnot, it was time to do some walking. I grabbed my empty diploma holder, marched out on stage to shake the university president’s hand with a goofy grin on my face, watched Tim nearly trip and fall over a rug, and sat back down… For some reason, I thought it would feel more liberating. Maybe it’s because of what’s coming next… It’s nice to know I wouldn’t have to worry about another engineering final, though! I’m very glad to have had so much help getting through this degree.
What’s next for me is a little unusual. Starting in February, I’ll be attending a very different type of school as a recruit for the local police department. My degree was the final requirement needed for the hiring process (which I may write more about later). I’m beyond excited to get started there; this has been a long time in the making and finally seeing the hard work start to pay off feels great. Thank you to everyone who’s helped me get this far. Can’t wait to see where my photography goes from here!