Sentimental

Sure I will have a degree in four weeks but I think the most important things I have learned in college were less than directly related to my coursework. This is a list of what my four years as a wildcat have taught me. 1. I may not be as celebrated or as highly regarded as a wolverine or spartan, and I may tell you I attend NMU, and get, "Why New Mexico?" as a response, but there is a certain quiet pride to the green and gold, to not seeing every other person wearing my school's colors. A wildcat is exclusive, a wildcat is proud, and a wildcat is humble. 2. Expect the unexpected. Just because it is 75 degrees and sunny in December does not mean the winter will be mild, in fact if there is still snow on the ground mid April, the most seasoned yooper will hardly bat an eyelid. 3. It is not conducive to one's mental health to visit Walmart on a Sunday. 4. If somebody cares about you, they will let you know. If somebody does not care about you, it is not worth it to trip over yourself trying to gain their approval. Turn to the person who is letting you know. 5. The sound of waves breaking on the beach, the wind shaking the leaves and needles of every branch in every tree, and the local bluegrass folk reggae fusion band are more beautiful then the top 40 artists headlining at major universities. 6. People in this world are amazing, tell them good morning and give them a smile. A positive attitude and kindness can brighten up the grayest of winter days. 7. Never start drinking when it gets dark outside. Yeah sure, in August it gets dark at 10pm, but in December it gets dark at 4pm. 8. The end will never justify your means. Never suffer doing something you are not passionate about, in order to gain something you think you want. Do what you love and never stop. The means are the end. 9. Don't skip a commitment to lay in bed to mope and don't stay up late every night on the internet. Do skip the occasional "important thing," to check out a new hiking trail or get in a round of cliff jumping and stay up late for that Aurora Borealis, meteor shower, or beach bonfire. 10. When that guy in a suit, that woman in glasses, that older relative, or person somehow in charge of you questions your collegiate/career goals. You look them in the eyes and say, "I respect your opinion, but I got this." 11. Craft beer is worth your money. Always 12. Never say no when you mean yes, always say yes when you don't know.