I never would have thought that my senior year would come to an early end because of a global pandemic.

The entire spring semester, I spent preparing myself for graduation and post-graduation work. When Temple notified myself and the rest of the graduating class that the commencement for this year would be virtual, I was crushed. I was really excited to walk across the stage at the Liacouras Center as the first person in my family to graduate college. Then I realized I had to put my selfish wants to the side and understand that it was for everyone’s safety that we all do not congregate in one space.

My parents celebrated with me in the best way they could at home, by decorating the house and having a drive-by parade that consisted of my family and friends. It made me appreciate the little things in life, especially my health and theirs. I was more thankful that my entire family was healthy and still able to see me graduate even if it was virtual. Now, I can proudly say that I am Temple Made and Temple Proud. After graduation, I began my internship at Temple Health doing research as well as landing a full time job working for the Philadelphia Public Health Department, helping fight the very same virus that canceled my graduation.