Attention to the University of Guam graduating class of SP’23! Everything settled? To those of us who are not yet ready to reach that final step, do you know about everything you need to do to prepare?
From ensuring all necessary forms are completed to taking a moment to breathe it all in, two seniors, Marian ‘Mar’ Salenga and Mikaylla ‘Kaylla’ Alcairo, share their thoughts about it all as well as some advice for future graduates of UOG!
With so many other factors at play in her life right now, such as arranging to relocate post-graduation, Alcairo, double majoring in Communication and Psychology, shares that she had to make sure she began preparation for everything needed the semester prior to this to relieve her anxiety and suggests those who are graduating soon do the same thing.
Salenga, who is majoring in Psychology, shares what initially made her feel as though the process to graduate would be so unstable. “I’ve heard many unfortunate stories on the topic of not having enough credits to graduate…a little unsettling but exciting because I’m almost there,” she clarifies. “[E]verything’s completed, it’s just my final semester grades that matter right now!”
A highlighted portion for both girls revolves around those who surround and encourage them. “The people who are supporting me feel proud. It’s such a big accomplishment in our eyes, so I think we feel similar emotions,” Salenga states. She feels as though such a big accomplishment touches the lives of those around her as well as her own, especially her parents, who she acknowledges for continuing to take care of and support her. Alcairo agrees with the sentiment and says that although she did not think that having something to celebrate graduating would be important, all her friends and family are doing a lot to make sure they are able to show support.
There is just something about this step of life that is bittersweet to leave. Salenga and Alcairo know that they will miss being a student at the university. The pair of friends agree in their responses in that they know despite graduating, they are still learning and want to continue to be educated, even if they don’t continue with schooling. “I am enjoying the embrace of all this knowledge,” Salenga adds onto how she wishes she saw a higher appreciation towards education.
The duo is also fond of their friendships and have found that growing at the university has also shed new light on how they view relationships.
Alcairo affectionately shares the ones she believes she will be missing the most. “The people I met in my classes – that I have had several classes with. I formed a friendship with them, even if we don’t have the same friend groups outside of class, the people I always sit next to.”
Our two graduates ensured they left some words of wisdom for their peers who have yet to graduate:
“Show up…Follow your advisor. Make use of the things that the university offers.”
From, Kaylla
“My advice is to take advantage of the education. Use it. Challenge it. See the benefit in it. Focus on a good balance between work, fun, loved ones, and yourself.”
Best, Mar