A few days ago my middle son, Phil, graduated from our local community college. He graduated with High Honors, having taken a ton of difficult math and science and pre-engineering classes, in which he got straight A's. He worked so hard, and also held a job through most of the time he was in school. Now he's planning to head off to get an engineering degree, specializing in alternative energy engineering. I'm so proud of him, so, so proud!
I have to say that I've waited many years to have a kid of mine graduate from any college. All of them have attended, but nobody so far has a degree to show for it until now! I always told them "education will always be available" and I know that is true. I think I was trying to hold an awareness that many people are not ready to simply go right from high school into a 4 year college. I did it, but looking back on it, I was not very into it. I went because it was expected, I had no choice, but I would probably have been better advised to take a couple of years off to experience a little life before I got serious about school. I didn't maximize a precious opportunity. Even though I got a great education, at a top notch Ivy league school, I didn't have the maturity or focus to really make the most of it. Now I see Phil, with all that focus and motivation. He has taken his time off, been a musician, travelled all over the world, gotten married, worked, and now he burns with desire to get an education and have a profession. It is a joy to watch this happening.
6 comments:
Congratulations. You are rightfully proud of your son. It is funny how our own expectations can get in the way, but your son has found his own path.
My son was focused on education from the get go. All he ever wanted to do whas become a college professor, I mean from the time he was a wee little baby. And he is one -- he's got a PhD., he teaches at University level, went straight through until college graduation, took a year off, then started grad school.
My daughter, on the other hand, was less focused. She was the wanderer, she moved to London for a year, she went to three different colleges, and she did not go on to graduate school. She's married, has a baby, and has a career.
Neither of my kids followed my expected paths, but both are happy.
Congratulations to Phil! I am so happy for him, and for you. I was a late bloomer, didn't go to college until I was in my late 20s. It happened when I was ready, like Phil. Sounds like he's on a fantastic path. Kids have the future in their hands.
My heart feels your joy. I am so happy for your Phil and for you. I know this was a heartfelt accomplishment. The photo and his smile says it all! Congrats to everyone...YAY!
I finished my undergraduate degree when I was in my late 20's. I didn't start my graduate work until I had turned 40. Life always takes unexpected routes. I am so happy for you and your son! Congratulations to you both! You must be fit to burst with pride. I wish him a happy and healthy life!
congratulations to Phil - and you! Yep, I took a year off after high school and it was the best thing I could've done. I needed to learn in the ol' school of hard knocks what a priveledge education is.
Enjoy your pizza celebration tonight! 'Twas a delight to meet you and your sweetie-pie.
How wonderful to achieve such a life milestone - Congratulations to both of you!
Hope Phil lets all of us know how to access alternative energy in our own spaces :-)
Post a Comment