Oh my, oh my - what an emotional journey this has been. I started my Master’s like any other student, but the person walking out today is completely different from the one who walked in two years ago. USC has changed my life in ways I can’t fully put into words. The credit goes entirely to the people I met along the way: my roommate, classmates, co-workers, and the hundreds of you I crossed paths with at events, in hallways, on random street corners, or even in a bar. You all gave me a lifetime of memories.
Time has flown, and here we are in graduation season. The campus is alive with celebration - friends and families flying in from all over the world to watch their loved ones walk that stage. For me, there was a bittersweet ache knowing my parents couldn’t be here in person. Still, I hope I made them proud with this path, this journey, and everything I’ve achieved.
Two people who inspire me the most are my nana (grandfather) and nani (grandmother). More than anyone else, I wanted them to feel proud, their love and constant support have shaped everything I am.
At USC, my family became my friends, the staff members, and the professors who lifted me up during my toughest times - and yes, they’ve seen some of those times firsthand. On graduation day, I spent the ceremony with my buddy Kuan and his wonderful family. I was proud of him, just as they were. I had my camera out, vlogging the whole thing, while my parents and grandparents watched live from the other side of the world.
It’s a day I’ll never forget. And from here on out, I can proudly say I am and will always be a Trojan. #FightOn