Description: 

Many of my peers and their families came to celebrate the efforts of honors students. The faculty facilitating the event was short-handed, so I attended to help lighten the burden. Everybody and their mom were dressed in button-ups and dresses. The decor was black, white, and yellow, with catering from Olive Garden. While there were speakers, chattering could be heard throughout the room. It was indeed a family event. Students would approach the booth smiling, with their timid siblings behind them. Mothers were smiling, and fathers were approving. Some families would arrive separately from the student and were eager to chat about and share their child's name. The photographers were careful not to interfere with the event while quietly positioning themselves to snap the best pictures they could. Event organizers would quietly shuffle in the back and front to ensure the best experience for the honors students. There was a joyful, celebratory air, and I was glad to be a part of it.

Reflection: 

You know those moments in life when everything feels wonderful? Picture the room full of balloons, dresses, parents, kids, and graduating students. I attended the event alone but felt the communal spirit of celebration. As I greeted and bid farewell to students and families, my phrases were filled with "congratulations." My cheeks hurt from smiling by the end of the event; it felt good to be there. 

By the end of the event, I had realized something within myself. Peers like myself surrounded me. I've often been called a perfectionist, and I admit I frequently put in more effort than necessary when doing something. That said, I take pride in doing my best and giving nothing short of my best. I want to reflect on my academic career with satisfaction, knowing I did everything possible. I fear a future where I ask myself what opportunities I missed because I failed to give my all. I know many give their all in college, I don't want to invalidate their experiences. My success does not equal another student's lack of effort; instead, I found a community of people like myself. These peers of mine gave their all in classes and were rewarded with honors. We understand each other in ways that only honors students could. We're passionate about our research and our performance in class. We've all taken great pains to do both, and their efforts have been rewarded. Many great achievers have walked that stage, and soon, I will walk where they have. It's corny and a bit poetic, but encouraging to know I walk the same path with many I'm beginning to call friends.