This is my last article for The Whit, which could only mean that graduation is right around the corner. I have mixed emotions about it. I’m sad, happy, grateful, excited and nervous. I don’t think I am ready to say goodbye, and, with that being said, I realized that I cannot possibly find the right words to do so, so I reached out to some professors on campus who offered to share their final farewells, as well as any advice they would like provide graduating students with.

“Congratulations to all of the 2022 graduates. You should be proud of what you have accomplished! My advice to those that are graduating is to always keep learning and building on those skills you have developed during your academic career at Rowan.” – Professor Amy Lysak

“Follow your passion! Choosing a career where you can arrive to work each day with enthusiasm is the most fruitful path to success. Your degree from Rowan leaves you well prepared for many aspects of post-graduation life and by applying what you’ve learned to your passions, you can achieve your career goals. We’re glad we could help you for a few brief years, and we are all excited to see the fun, unique, and impactful paths you each choose.” – Professor Paul Ullmann 

“What a privilege it was to teach you and work with you in the practicum type classes. Best wishes for much success and many blessings!” – Dr. Suzanne Fitzgerald 

“I encourage you to be patient and kind to yourself as you navigate this next chapter in your lives. It takes time to figure out your path and there is room to take some risks and try things that may or may not work out. Remember the power of the word ‘yet,’ as in ‘I haven’t figured out my next steps… yet’ or ‘I haven’t solved my problem… yet.’  Hang in there and try again if the first time doesn’t work out. I wish you all the best!” – Dr. Leslie Spencer 

“Your career is your own small business. Pay attention to the details. Keep track of who you meet, actions you take and ideas you have in a journal. Work smart. Dream big. Go for it! Wishing the Class of 2022 all the best in this exciting new chapter!” – Professor Karen Brager 

“You lived through a very weird two years. You are so resilient and adaptable. We are proud of you. Good luck and keep in touch.” – Professor Kathryn Quigley

“My only advice is that you take life as a constant journey and not focus on struggle, but learn from it. Appreciate the moments as they are the fabric that weaves our lives together.” – Professor Lee Plenn  

“Be smart with your money. Begin saving for retirement now, yes now. Don’t put yourself in debt unnecessarily. Buy what you have money for and save up for the things you want. Then purchase them. Have fun and enjoy this time of your life.” – Professor Christine Barden

“Graduation is a very exciting time, and it is a huge change to your life and daily routine. Never feel alone or lost. You are forever a part of Rowan, and we are all here to help you long after you turn that tassel. Best wishes to all graduates!” – Professor Lisa Fagan 

“Congratulations to our graduates! My wish for you as you make the leap from awesome student to aspiring professional is for you to learn something new as often as you can. It doesn’t have to come from a book, a blog or a classroom. Try new things. Find what energizes and excites you. Find your passion. Be proud of what you have accomplished!”  – Professor Linda Pollock 

“Be your own best advocate. No job I ever had was a job I applied for. In other words, I never got a job because I saw a job on a job site or somewhere online. It was always me taking initiative to knock on doors or send my work to people, whether they knew who I was or not. That’s how I managed to get where I am today– me seeking the opportunities, not just waiting around. Don’t sit around, waiting to see a job post. No. Go out there. You’re on your own. Advocate for yourself. There is so much power in that.” – Professor Nicholas Diulio

I hope that all of you can take away something from the words of our beloved professors here at Rowan. It has been a privilege writing for The Whit and attending Rowan for the last four years. And I am sad it is coming to an end. But this is just the end of a chapter and the beginning of our stories. Best of luck to my fellow graduates!     

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