Words cannot express how excited I am to hear Chancellor Victor Boschini to announce, “I now present to you the spring graduating class of 2012 of Texas Christian University.” However until May 12, 2012, I wait in anticipation and try to prepare myself for what lies ahead of me.

It seems like yesterday was the first day of the spring semester, and in two weeks I will officially receive an undergraduate degree in strategic communication. As I prepare for graduation, I reflect on my time at TCU and realize that I have so much for which to be grateful.

So many opportunities enriched my university experience. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I eagerly looked forward to ways to get involved on campus. Over the past four years, I have been a Frog Camp facilitator, Connections mentor, Chancellor’s Leadership Fellow, Leadership for Life coach and Ronald E. McNair Scholar, among many other positions. 

Some of my greatest memories were created serving as president of the Black Student Association and alongside my sisters of Alpha Kappa Alpha. 

I am grateful for those who have played a significant role in my academic career. I have built relationships with faculty and staff who have mentored me these last four years, and I am so thankful for that. In addition, I am more than grateful for the friends who I am sure will continue to be in my life.  

As one of my good friends, Chasity Shorts, once said, “When we were young, we were taught that we would find our husbands in college, but we were fortunate to find our bridesmaids instead.” 

Lastly, I think about challenges I have overcome, and I am grateful for each lesson I have learned and the impact they have had on my life. Although difficult at times, college has not only prepared me for the “real world” but also has allowed me to explore and grow into the person that I want to be. I can confidently say that I am proud of what I have accomplished. I hope that my contributions will make a difference and will inspire others to make the most of their undergraduate experience.

Four years ago when I decided to attend TCU, I had no idea how proud I would be to join the Horned Frog family. I look forward to becoming a university alumna, and no matter where life leads me or adventures to come, I will never stop bleeding purple.

Hail, all hail TCU! Go Frogs! 

Olivia Stribling is a senior strategic communication major from Sulphur Springs.