Words can’t really describe the way that I feel when I think about the journey that I have taken over the past 5 years, but I will do my absolute best. First of all, I would like to thank God, for without Him, none of this would have been possible. My journey was long and hard, full of ups and downs, but through the grace of God I can declare that it was all worth it. The struggles have made me into a better woman than I ever thought possible, and I am truly grateful for them. I would also like to thank my best friend Sara Jane (Kara Burke) for her laughs, tears, continued support and most of all, unwavering friendship.
Who would have thought that when we met 5 years ago in Ms. McKinsey’s class that we would be as close as we are now? You have been more than a friend to me and I love you. I’ll never forget all the wild parties in 42 or all the times you tried to calm me down so that I wouldn’t lose my mind.
Who could forget our housewarming party where you flipped out and threw everybody out? Or my sitting in the floor rocking, ready to fight? Priceless memories. You are truly the best friend that I could ever ask for and I thank God for you.
To my little sister Sydne’, you are truly one of a kind. I thank you for allowing me the opportunity to have an influence over you. I thank you for looking up to me and taking not only the bad, which I am so often credited for, but taking on the good as well. You are a beautiful girl and I want nothing but the best out of life for you. I’ll never forget your 20th birthday and all the sessions that we’ve had. I love you and I want you to remember that I’ll ALWAYS be there for you.
To my cousin Tierra, I love you beyond words and I thank you for the influence that you have had on me. I know it wasn’t easy but you helped to calm me down a lot. Stay positive and beautiful, and remember that you are destined for great things. Nae Nae, you are one of the best sisters that I could ever ask for. We’ve been through so much together and are still going strong. I love you. And to the boys, thank you for always being there when I needed a laugh or comfort.
Finally, Grambling State University, I thank you for all of the life lessons that I have learned here. This university has truly helped to prepare me for the world and the struggles that lie ahead of me. I thought that my nanny was embellishing when she talked about the pride that she has in her alma mater, but now I know exactly what she meant. I am now a Tiger that bleeds Black and Gold. Thank you.