The Graduate.

I keep telling myself that this isn’t a big deal. I’m not entirely sure why. I did work hard for this degree. I wrote a pretty awesome thesis, if I do say so myself. Oddly, I just can’t fully appreciate that I am a “Master” of American Studies. I suppose it might have to do with the fact that I may not ever use my degree. I love to learn. I love to read. I love to write. I love to ruminate over interesting topics and discuss opposing viewpoints. Those passions are satisfied in the classroom, and I want to continue to learn, to push my own limits. I may or may not acquire some more letters after my name, but I want to be a life-long student. I’m not too sure what’s up next (I was, however, enamored by the puffy sleeved Ph.D. gowns and the velvety hats… might be in my future). 

I am incredibly thankful to the people who made this possible. My mom and dad encouraged a spirit of wonder in me from a young age, and continued to foster that as I made my way through high school and college. During the M.A. program my dad served as my editor-in-chief, reading various versions of almost every paper I wrote. He never failed to fit me into his busy schedule, and he always offered a comment or a suggestion. My mom inspires my writing style. I always consider her when I’m writing. I want her to understand and enjoy the entire paper. I’m not writing for staunch intellectuals – they can entertain themselves with their own high ideas. My mom is my reader. Quinn’s support has been incredible. He gave me the time and space I needed, and he always listened to me read thesis copies out loud to make sure everything sounded right. He also watched countless episodes of 30 Minute Meals (more than he’d like to admit). I’m sure he’s quite over Rachael Ray.

The ceremony resembled every other graduation ceremony, ever. Nothing too special. The president of the Penn State Alumni Association gave the address. He did a good job and kept the speech within 15 minutes, which is a major bonus. Neil, Kate, Quinn, and Becki sat through almost 2.5 hours of droning names. They love me. 

 

After the ceremony, we headed back to Shipoke to host a little shin-dig. We had Meggy-Pooh and Bill (missed you Sandy!!), the rest of the McCullough’s after Kelsey’s soccer game, Nana and Grandpa Buss with fruit salad and tapioca pudding in tow, and the Kupfer’s. Perfection. I missed David, of course, but it was a nice little barbecue, despite the look on Quinn’s face. 

 

*If by any chance you are interested in reading THE thesis, just let me know. I’m happy to send an e-copy along!