I’m done with school forever, now for a recap

Finals season is always a difficult time, but especially as a senior in college. There’s a term called “senioritis,” meaning not having the motivation to do work because we just want that diploma already. 

The exact day I submitted my last final ever was on Friday, May 3 at around 7 p.m. It was a test for my Media Ethics class, and I got an A by the way. The moment I clicked the “submit” button, it finally hit me: I’m done with school forever.

A little background for those who do not know, I graduated from Northside High School during the COVID-19 pandemic. My senior year was cut short and there were many experiences I did not have, such as doing a walkthrough to my previous schools: Westside Elementary and Thomson Middle School. I was not able to see my old teachers who guided me and taught me many lessons I still remember today. Despite the pandemic, I was glad we were able to have a graduation at the McConnell-Talbert Stadium (MAC). 

Fast forward to May 9, 2024, I successfully graduated from Middle Georgia State University with a Bachelor of Arts in New Media and Communications. It was a very special day to be able to share with my classmates, friends and family. I could not have done it without my family’s support. 

My dad, Oscar Hernandez, is an immigrant from El Salvador who came to America for a better life and worked hard to own his mechanic business, Hernandez Auto Repair, in Warner Robins. My mom, my best friend, Laura Hernandez, came to America from Mexico back in the 90s to learn English. She put her life on pause so she could have better opportunities in her home country since she graduated as a Chemical Engineer. My parents met in Warner Robins and the rest is history. 

My parents always supported my brothers and me to get better opportunities. While graduating, I thought about them and their sacrifices. Graduation was not only a special day for me but for my family as well. 

Since going into college, I knew I wanted to be a journalist and strived hard to be the best. During my sophomore year, I joined the student newspaper The Statement and started my first News Writing and Reporting class. I remember being nervous and at times, questioning if I belonged in the field. Thankfully, I had great mentors including my three professors: Dr. Lucia Palmer, Dr. Andre Nicholson and Dr. Rebecca Edwards who taught me everything I know. The previous editors of the newspaper, Jordan Pridgeon and Joshua Eubanks, also taught me a lot as a baby journalist. 

After the previous editors graduated, I stepped up to the role of Editor-in-Chief which eventually led me to being a Staff Writer for the Houston Home Journal. I remember jumping at the opportunity when Dr. Nicholson told me there was a position available and nervous sending the email to the Managing Editor at the time Tyler Meister.

The Houston Home Journal has taught me a lot this past year. Both the current Managing Editor Brieanna Smith and Tyler helped me become more confident in my writing. Transitioning from a student reporter to a real reporter was daunting. Suddenly I was a sophomore again and questioning everything. But they helped me through it, and I will forever be grateful.

Now, a day after graduation, I am a full-time reporter at The Houston Home Journal. I am excited to start this new journey and continue engaging with the community. 

In conclusion, staying at home was not my original plan as an 18-year-old fresh out of high school but I’m glad I did. I am grateful I stayed home because it brought me so many opportunities and memories.

See you never, school, I will (surprisingly) miss you.