I made it through first year (barely), and am here able to finally write again. The next year of graduate school will still be challenging, but nothing compared to the year that just finished. It was horrible. I advice anyone who is considering a masters degree to really really make sure it is what you want to do with your life. It is the type of experience that will bend you to the point of breaking-and in the case of SLP class 2013-14 many did break. It became a regular occurrence to pass someone crying in the hall and implicitly understand that it's a bad day. Often times we did not need comforting, we just needed to let the tears fall until we realized there was work to be done and clients to see.

The best part about all of this is knowing that the worst is behind us! We made it. Sure, some of us failed clinic or a class and have to repeat, but overall it is nothing we can't handle.

I made personal gains through this past year as well. I feel so much more confident in who I am. I no longer view parts of myself as "bad" and accept myself. My faith has grown to an infinite level. I believe in life after this because of my father's sudden passing. I also believe with every ounce of my being that everything happens for a reason. I feel happy, blessed, and trusting of life.