Becca Dunn

The Criterion’s opinion editor, Becca Dunn. We have no normal photos of her.

As graduation approaches, I feel my anxiety rise with each passing day. There’s a looming uncertainty that comes with entering the real world that presses on my neck and it takes me back to how I felt when I was a freshman in 2019. Even though this degree is something that I have been fighting tooth and nail over for these last seven years, I can’t help but worry about my future beyond the walls of higher education.

When I look to my peers here at CMU, both who are graduating and not, I realize that we are all struggling with something. Change is terrifying, growth is painful and everyone is dealing with something similar to my pre-grad turmoil. A common experience amongst many is that of a grating feeling of falling behind, clawing to catch up with peers.

This is a feeling that I am extremely familiar with and I am here to tell you that you are not alone.

I am a non-traditional student. When covid hit during my second semester of community college, I was incapable of completing my classes when everything was moved to digital platforms. By the time I went back to school in 2022, many of my friends were completing their final semesters and had already started the job hunt. I felt inadequate, ashamed and that while everyone around me was growing, I felt that I was abandoned in a stagnant purgatory devised of my own insecurities. I felt completely and utterly behind.

Looking back now with a more developed brain, I realize that I was comparing my journey to the people around me far more than I should have. It wasn’t until recently that I found myself feeling excited, even proud of the challenges that I have overcome. I realized that the growth I have made, not only toward my grades but as a person as well, is something that has gone unappreciated these past seven years.

So for those experiencing similar struggles, here are some words of wisdom from a non-traditional student who has faced all these things before.

1: The human existence is not a one-size-fits all type of experience. Each and every single one of us will grow at our own pace, whether that be at a grueling march or a gentle jog. Trying to force yourself to develop at the same rate as everyone else will only lead to a stressful journey. Take your time, whatever that pace is for you.

2: We are all dealing with our own anxieties of where we are headed in life. The world is an unpredictable place and there is no way to know where we will be headed. While I would never discourage hard work and determination, learning to work with what you are given and make something amazing out of it is a valuable skill.

3: Have more trust in yourself and your capabilities. University is THE PLACE to develop your skills, and while comparing your work to that of your peers and those already in the field helps to give you structure, confidence in your work is key for creating your own style. You’re here for a reason, believe in yourself!