During my nursing school orientation evening, we ran into the then current class, and I asked them when they were graduating. When I learned they had 2 weeks to go, I was, to be honest, jealous! I remember thinking I couldn't imagine being that close to graduation, and that 16 months sounded like a long time. I'm not quite at 2 weeks to go, but 46 days is pretty darn close. I have 6 tests and 1 final exam standing in between me and graduation day. That probably doesn't seem like too much to you, but considering I study about 50-60 hours per test, it feels like a lot today as I sit on my couch with my study materials spread out around me.
I've never had such a bad case of senioritis! This last semester has probably been the most difficult, academically and emotionally. There is increasing tension in the classroom, and it seems like everyone, including our professor, is exhausted and stressed. This final course is extremely difficult. This week I earned my lowest test grade of the entire program. Many of us are hovering near the passing line, and if we don't pass this final course, we will fail out of the program and be required to start from the beginning. Yes, the very beginning. One of my classmates made it to 3 weeks before graduation several years ago and was removed from the program because of 1 failing grade. Needless to say, that's a terrifying realization. So, now is not the time to cruise to graduation. It's the time to buckle down and work harder than ever. I'm reminded of a verse I heard my dear friend, Bob Tissot, quote frequently. "We will reap a harvest if we don't give up." I'm ready for the harvest, and I will hard to earn it. I pray I can carry on for the next 46 days, and that, by the grace of God, I'll walk across the stage.
As for after graduation, my long-term goals aren't clear. My first goal is to take and pass my board exams, which will take place in early February. After that, I'll start applying to a wide variety of jobs to see what seems like a good fit.
Thanks for all your prayers and encouragement through this journey.
