It has been nearly four weeks since my last post and since then, so many things have changed. Life changing things.
On July 15th, 2831 days after the day classes started freshman year, I took my very last exam and that means I am done with my degree. We don’t have a traditional graduation ceremony for the entire university, so I simply picked up my diploma a few days after the exam. I know, not very dramatic. In fact, the secretary’s comment when I asked whether I had to sign anything was, “no, that’s it, quick and painless.” I know, not exactly how you picture the moment of being handed your diploma that you worked on for eight long years.
But you guys? This feels so good. And I am so proud.
Yet, in a way, I don’t feel any different. Like my brain hasn’t fully comprehended yet that I am no longer a student. Even though I have already started my job search, it hasn’t really sunk in yet. I still live on campus, I still hang out with my college friends, so in that regard not much has changed.
But every now and then, I have a moment when I realize that I really am done. And I am so happy that all the years of studying were worth it. I think it will all become more real when I move in a little under four weeks and leave Heidelberg, the city where I grew and matured into the person that I am today.
I celebrated the occasion with a cupcake. After that last exam (which did not go well) I really needed a little sugary goodness.
So here is to a new phase of my life! I am no longer a graduate student. And I cannot wait to see what the next year brings.
What did you do after graduation? Did you start job-hunting right away? Go on a vacation? Do share.
After graduation, I got a job ripping the holes off of 80′s copy paper for my Dad’s friend’s company. I earned minimum wage for 3 months until I got enough money to buy my ticket to Germany! I got over here as soon as I could! It doesn’t exactly matter what your first job is out of school – what will happen will happen and you’ll meet people that will put you on your path. Try to move forward, but don’t try to force anything! Congrats again!
I’m so pleased for you; but also quite sad that you don’t get some sort of ceremony or something to celebrate your hardwork. But a cupcake works, too! Woo!
Congratulations again! You did it!!!!
My “graduation” experience was even more eventless than yours. I had already moved to Sweden to write my thesis here, so all I did was handing in my thesis in August 2001, combined that trip with a Germany-vacation with J and started job hunting upon my return in September! In December I finally received my M.A. diploma in the mail as well as I had my first day at work…in the same company that I’m still working for.
Congrats!! I am so proud and happy for you! :D Yay for cupcakes; that one looks quite lovely. Here’s to the next chapter :)
Congratulations Vivi!
I’m so happy for you and am crossing my fingers for your finding the dream-job right away. You’re so worth it!
My graduation looked like yours really. Did you have a thesis defence? For me this felt more like a graduation than the real one. My professors called me ”magister” then for the first time :)
HUGS
Herzlichen Glückwunsch!! In solchen Momenten merkt man doch, dass sich all die Arbeit gelohnt hat.
Bei mir steht demnächst erstmal das Abitur vor der Tür. ;)
x K