Back in 2023, I came to UMass Boston as a transfer student from Bunker Hill Community College. At a fair for student work study, I walked in just thinking I’d like to improve my writing skills, and then I found the table for The Mass Media.

I wouldn’t have expected things to turn out how they did, especially as I write this two years later while preparing for graduation.

Being an opinions writer for The Mass Media has opened up doors I would’ve never expected, and I think attending UMass Boston has showed me just how common this can be.

I’ve connected with so many amazing writers during my career, and have definitely seen my skills improve as the years have gone on. As I get together with my friends who will also be graduating, I realize the sentiment is shared.

Many of us are ready to take the next step forward, but these last few years will definitely be playing a role in how the future plays out. We look back at our time here with pride, truly realizing just how much we’ve overcome to get to this moment.

My journey was not conventional, and a lot of my early articles reference that. It has taken me seven years to get my Bachelor’s degree due to multiple long breaks because of some life-threatening health issues.

Back when I was a new transfer student, I felt some embarrassment about the timeline it took to get where I am now. But over the years, sharing my story through the newspaper has made me realize how many people feel the same, and how the power of storytelling can bring together so many shared perspectives.

Now this journey is coming to an end and I can’t believe how fast the time flew. I’ve gained so many amazing relationships over the years with both students and staff.

I hope all of my fellow graduates feel the same level of pride and accomplishment that they deserve. This has in no way been an easy journey for anyone, and yet we’re finally reaching the end of something that once felt new and exciting.

As I finish writing this final article, I look back with joy at these two years of sharing my opinions with you all. I wish to one day be writing for films, so hopefully in the future, there will be a time when you all encounter my work again. Until then, thank you so much for joining me for this wonderful experience and for giving me your time and energy.

For those graduating, I hope the world continues to fulfill your dreams that you set out for yourself. And for those continuing, I hope you’re able to see it through to the end. It’ll no doubt be hard, but from a first generation Latina who took seven years to finish, I can tell you that watching the finish line finally get closer, really makes it all all feel worth it.

Good luck to everyone at UMass Boston, and I thank you again for taking the time to reach the end with me. Enjoy your summer everyone, and may we cross paths again in the future!