Alver Tom C.

Dela Rosa ENG 202 2:30-3:30

NOT GRADUATING ON TIME

I choose this speech because it really has a big impact to me. It feels sad
knowing I won’t graduate on time. The day I walked out of Advising, head hanging down
because I’m not going to finish in four years which makes you feel ashamed of yourself.
You did well in high school; you were always told you were smart, so why couldn't you
make it in four years like you were supposed to? Now you see, that’s the problem here.

It is important to address this issue because just like me, at first I feel so
hopeless. The thought scares me because I am going to tell my family who expected so
much from me. And telling your friends you won't be graduating with them will only add
to that sense of hopelessness. Soon, you'll see photos and posts from people you left
high school with, talking about graduation and the wonderful lives they are about to
begin in their new careers. You'll wonder how they did it, and you'll feel like a failure.

But then, I realized that not being able to finish your studies on time is never
shameful. If you attend your class and study hard, it will happen. There is no reason to
rush. Just do your best and do not pressure yourself. Do not let other people’s
expectations define you. Not being able to get your diploma on time is okay. We have
our own struggles. We have different journeys to take. We have different baggages.
Never let people’s judgement shape you. What is important is you never give up in
reaching your dreams. You did not stop chasing them. It is with quitting that you stop
aiming for success. Sometimes, we have dreams that we have to set aside as of the
moment due to circumstances, but that does mean we will not achieve them soon.
Getting that diploma is not a race. You will soon get there. For as long as you have the
passion and dedication to get it, you are surely on the right track. Never give up on life's
challenges, and when you reach the verge of success, keep your head lay down low.
There is no such thing as delayed success. You will have your time soon. You will be
marching soon with that best OOTD and all your sacrifices will be worth it always fight
for your dreams. Graduation will happen.