By: Benjamin Smith
Staff Writer
“College is part of the journey, not the destination,” a phrase I’ve heard many times throughout my last semester at Vol State. As graduation draws near, I’m consumed by bittersweet feelings, reminiscing on how much has happened over the previous two years. When I first arrived, I wasn’t sure where I’d end up or how I would fit in. I was anxious and uncertain, questioning whether college was the right decision for me. Now, I can confidently draw a line from where I was to where I am now. Not only have I found my calling, but I’ve also grown exponentially, both personally and professionally.
Before Vol State, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do professionally. I knew I liked writing, painting, drawing, and computer programming, but I wasn’t sure where to go from there. Eventually, I decided I wanted to do something that involved creative writing. Unfortunately, I found that many of the best jobs in this field require a four-year degree. I now knew I had two options: I could get a lower-paying job without a degree or pursue a degree and make more in the long term. That’s where my journey to Vol State began.
I remember the beginning as if it happened only moments ago. It was a rainy summer day when my family and I toured the campus. The school’s vibe was very warm and welcoming, and after I registered for classes in the fall, I was as ready as I could be for August.
The weekend before classes started, I struggled to stay calm or find any sense of peace. Nothing could satiate the trembling and butterflies in my stomach for what was to come.
Monday morning had finally arrived. I was dropped off and walked into the most familiar building to me: the Admissions Center. Showing the front desk my schedule, I asked where to find the SRB Humanities building, and was told I could cut through the Wood campus center. I did so and arrived at the SRB building 15 minutes before my first class started. When the time came, I made my way to the classroom. As the instructor began handing out syllabus sheets, I kept doubling back over my schedule and realized I was in the wrong room! Embarrassed, I apologized and swiftly left, trying to cool the heat coming off my probably red face. At last, I found the right room and settled into a comfy swivel chair surrounded by other students. My breathing and heart began to slow as I set my backpack down. I made it.
I spent most of my early semesters completing general education courses with a humanities major. Eventually, I decided to switch to a journalism major, hoping it would open more opportunities in creative writing.
Things went on like this for a while, and by the end of my fourth semester, I began questioning whether I had chosen the right major. I knew now that it was too late to change again, as the first had already set me back.
Once my fifth semester began, I started writing for The Settler (now Pioneer Press), as it was part of my major, and I’d always wanted to try it but never got around to it. After I wrote my first story, all the questions and doubts evaporated. I knew exactly what I wanted to do with my career.
Through it all, the ups and downs, the highs and lows, I am so thankful. Vol State gave me more than credits and coursework; it gave me direction. I’m grateful for those who helped me get here, and I’m excited to see where this foundation leads me. If anything, these past two years have shown me that growth often starts in the most unexpected places. For me, it started here.
I want to thank my amazing parents, who helped guide me in my decision-making and gave me confidence through thick and thin. You are so dearly loved.
Secondly, thank you to all the professors I had during my time here: Sara Harvey, Clay Scott, Jennifer McMillion, Molly Valentine, Angelina Cowan, Katherine Judd, Leonard Assante, Charles McCauley, Edmon Thomas, Emmet Duggan, Stephen Gallup, Maryam Farsian, Grady Eades, Seth Goad, Brenda Wolff, Karen Hill, Ines Petrovic Garcia, Allen Babiarz-Lira, Stella Pierce, and Pamela Bowie.
Finally, to all my fellow students, peers, and graduates, farewell and congratulations! The future is bright!
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