Budding Success

Come tomorrow and the following two days, I will witness yet again, another batch of graduating NIE students in their Harry Porter garb as they recite their teacher's pledge, bid farewell to good campus memories and embrace a brand new challenge in the working world.

I was part of the hundreds who took the pledge last year and boy, that day was a memorable one as I recalled the pounding of my heart, swelling in pride for having to finally complete a leg of the learning journey.
Granted, time invested in studying take years but the few seconds on stage, shaking hands with the guest of honor as you accept the folder can mean so much.
And I'll anticipate proud-looking parents & partners tomorrow.

Part of my responsibility when covering investitures is to interview students who have excelled in both their academic pursuits and active involvements.
This year, I had the chance to get an up close and personal interview with the valedictorian who was one of the two students who attained a first class honors and is also a recipient of numerous awards.
Coincidentally, this same girl is one of my favorite colleagues back then during my Practicum days.
I've always known her silly&crazy side. But she, I must say, despite her petite frame had so much courage and confidence to take on new challenges, even if it means exploring the unfamiliar.
It was a weird interview since we were so used to informal chats.
And so I had to resort to email and as I read her responses last night, it's no wonder she got to where she is right now.

But for now, I have to put together an article of her and for once, I really do feel proud of my friends who's graduating this year, friends whom I've seen both their professional and personal side.

Enjoy your Harry Porter day. :)