No more teachers, no more books!

At least until August.  :)

Like I said in my previous post, even though I'm graduating next month with my Associate of Arts, I'll be right back for the fall semester to pursue my Bachelor's in Radiologic Technology.  This semester has been the hardest for me because since I returned to school in 2010, this was my first time as a full-time student.  I wish with everything in my heart and soul that I could just go to school full-time each semester and not work.  I've been in college now for three years and I have at least two more years before I can apply for clinical part of my degree.  If I quit working, however, I'd have to rely on E (that's what I call my boyfriend for short) 100% financially and I refuse to do so.  I've learned over the years to NOT rely on anyone for anything.  I don't mean any negative connotations with that, either.  It's fine to rely on others for emotional support, but as far as financially and educationally....no.  I am my own person who is capable of earning her own wages and earning her own stable education.  I don't want anything ever given to me.  I see so many people now who rely on others for EVERYTHING and it sickens me. 

Thankfully, my mother and my BESTEST FRIEND EVER (who I'll tell you more about later and I'm ashamed of the fact I haven't already mentioned her because she's the BEST!) have always encouraged me to stand on my own two feet and to do for myself.  I will never be able to thank them enough for that, because over the years, it has stood true. 

This past semester, I took courses in American Literature, Sociology, Music Appreciation, and part two of my French language requirement.  The American Lit was for the minor that I'm pursuing, but the other classes were all part of my general education requirements.  What really turned me towards the English minor was my English class last semester that was part of my general education requirement.  I had the most AWESOME teacher, and he woke up the love of literature and the English language that I'd forgotten existed.  I figured it's better (for me) to minor in English rather than major in it because I don't want to be a teacher and I really don't have any career desires as far as writing goes. 

So today officially begins my summer break (if that's what you wanna call it).  Just working full-time and TRYING to save some money so I can spend it on textbooks and other school-related expenses.  Ah, the life of a college student.  I know the rewards are great, but it seems like the journey lasts forever.

Now it's time to brag on my best friend.  Her name is Melanie and I gotta tell you...God hand-picked her for me!  If there was someone who I could call my sister without being related to her, it would be this woman.  We knew each throughout elementary and middle school but didn't really become friends until our freshman year of high school.

This is her and I back in 2002 getting ready to go to an Aerosmith concert.  She knows me better than I know myself, always knows how to make me laugh, pick up my spirits, and encourage me with just the right things to say because more than likely, she's been through it as well.  She is one of the ONLY people from school that kept in touch with me when I got pregnant and never left my side.  Even though we're not biologically related, I consider her my sister and am forever grateful and proud to call her my friend.  She moved a few years ago a couple hours away but each time we talk, it's as though there is no distance between us.

It's so true.  I really do have the BEST best friend!