The end of an era: Graduation

As I sit here on the eve of my college graduation (how incredible!), there are a million things that are going through my mind. I mean 18 years of school and thousands of dollars later and here I am.

Tomorrow, I will march down our famous red football field, in my black cap and gown and receive my Bachelor of Arts in Communications with an emphasis in PR, a minor in Journalism and a Leadership Certificate.

For those of you who may have seen, I debuted my decorated cap yesterday. It is set up as a baseball diamond, which may make some people wonder why I chose to go that direction.

I have worked in Minor League Baseball now for five years and have really found a passion for the sport and the business. I would now like to continue my career in MiLB and possibly even MLB.

My cap is a reminder of my future and where I hope to go. In addition, the words “going, going gone” remind me how far I have come and everything I have accomplished to get to this point.

The external portion of my cap is fun with a theme that represents the simple things in life. However, I wanted to do something a little unique in honor of those who have kept me grounded, motivated and humble.

On the inside of my cap and at each of the four points (hmm…that sounds familiar), the portion which is visible to me are 4 very different and essential symbols that have helped to shape who I am today.

In one corner sits a blue cross, which represents my faith. Without it, I would crumble and falter.

In another sits ΓΦB, which represents my sisters. Although I was only a member of Gamma Phi Beta for just over a year, the relationships I built and the lessons I learned from those amazing women will never be lost. These girls are my rock and pushed me forward, even when I wanted to run the other way. I can honestly say each one of them have touched me and inspired me in some way or another. I never saw myself as a “sorority girl” due to the stereotypes, but to hell with these stereotypes! Gamma Phis are upholding the highest type of womanhood. They are strong woman building even stronger girls. To the moon and back my friends and then once more! ΠKE

Third, a crown. This represents the Miss America Organization, specifically the Miss Washington Scholarship Organization. Never in a million years did I see myself walking across the stage in a “beauty pageant,” but my oh my have my views changed. There are not enough good things to be said about this organization. The women I have met through it are astounding. They are our leaders building a better tomorrow starting with today. And holy cow are the volunteers phenomenal. These people who fervently work day in and day out to support us are the backbone and the heart of this organization. They embody what it means to a servant leader. I believe I speak for all contestants, past and present, when I say you are so greatly appreciated and thank you. Because of this organization, I was excited to finish college and more proud to further my education.

Finally, is a heart to represent my heart (aka my family and closest friends). No words will EVER begin to measure the amount of gratitude I have for my mom, dad, brother and grandparents. The countless hours they have spent taking me to practices and school, driving to tournaments, paying for…well pretty much everything my entire life and on top of that providing me with love and support and never asking for anything in return is mind blowing. I know everyone always thanks their family and friends for supporting them, but I think it’s simply because we, as young adults, now realize we could NOT have ever done it without the unconditional love.

Needless to say, I am so excited to see where my future takes me. I am not sure what that next step is, but life thus far as been one heck of a ride and I am strapped in tight because I know from here it’ll only get better.

“You have brains in your head, and feet in your shoes, you can steer yourself in any direction you choose.”

Until next time,

Kailee