With graduation season on the horizon, a professor reflects on the journey of her students, particularly one remarkable young woman named Emily. As Emily chose her final semester courses, she expressed relief upon realizing she didn’t need to take on a heavy workload. All she could think about was earning enough money to live independently after graduation, juggling three part-time jobs in the process.
Living with her parents, both of whom had moved on with other partners, was simply not an option. Emily’s father had recently lost his job and could only afford a small apartment, while her mother was busy raising younger siblings and made it clear that Emily was not welcome at home. “I’m just worried I won’t have anywhere to go,” she confided.
My heart ached for her. As a first-generation college student, Emily embodied determination. The state college where I teach, known for its affordable tuition, attracts many ambitious individuals like her, who arrive with a drive to succeed but a heavy weight of financial and academic anxieties. Coming from an underfunded rural school, Emily didn’t even know how to send an email when she first stepped onto campus. Yet her passion for learning and hard work allowed her to catch up with her more privileged peers. She often expressed gratitude for the help I provided in class.
Building Connections
Throughout the years, Emily and I exchanged snippets of our lives. When I discovered her talent for singing, I shared my daughter’s budding interest in music. I was excited to tell her about my daughter’s recent role in a local musical. Emily shared her joy at landing her first major role in a high school production, despite her mother initially being dismissive of her talent. “She didn’t even know I could sing,” Emily said, recalling how her mother shed tears of pride on opening night.
I couldn’t fathom not knowing my daughter’s abilities, as she often sings around the house. Emily may have kept her talent under wraps, but it was evident she had something special. In a world where helicopter parenting is often criticized, Emily’s parents were far too preoccupied to hover over her, allowing her to flourish without the pressure some overly involved parents impose.
A Desire to Support
In that moment, I wished I could offer her a place in my home, providing the support she truly deserved. We had a spare room; she could even become a temporary big sister to my daughter, who was an only child. However, I knew this desire extended beyond my role as a professor. I was fulfilling my responsibilities as her teacher and mentor, guiding her toward a degree that remains a vital key to a brighter future. I didn’t need to mother her, but the urge was strong.
I told Emily what an extraordinary person she was, expressing my belief that she would succeed thanks to her hard work and compassion. “Teaching you is a true gift,” I said, fighting back tears, knowing it would be difficult to say goodbye.
Reflections on Graduation
As graduation approaches once more, I find myself thinking about Emily and the many students I’ve connected with over my decade of teaching. It’s never easy to part ways, and despite my experience, the emotional ties I form with my students feel deeper and more maternal as time goes by. I hear about their relationships, career worries, and struggles with mental health—challenges no young adult should have to face.
Yet, I also feel immense pride in the remarkable individuals they have become. Many have achieved great things; some have won prestigious awards and secured spots in top graduate programs. I have witnessed their transformation from timid students into confident, driven journalists who inspire hope for the future of our field.
I often joke, “I may have one child, but I have many students too.” It’s a complicated metaphor, and while I can’t truly take on the role of a mother to so many young adults, I cherish the relationships we build. After all, I don’t grade them or write their recommendations, thankfully.
Emily’s Journey
Ultimately, I recognize that Emily didn’t need another mother. She thrived on her own, and just before graduation, her mother surprised her by inviting her back home until she found a job. By summer’s end, Emily had landed a position as a flight attendant—a unique path for someone with a journalism degree. I’m ecstatic for her success, especially when I see her sharing pictures on social media from her adventures, often with her mother by her side.
Few mothers could handle the abrupt departures that come with graduation day. My college has a tradition of hosting receptions for graduates and their families, complete with cake in our school colors. Yet, the rush to pack up and leave often results in sparse attendance. Faculty members stand around, eating cake and reminiscing about their students.
I remind myself that the best farewell lies in cheering for my enthusiastic students as they cross the stage to receive their diplomas.
The Value of Education
As we live in an age where the value of a college education is frequently questioned, websites like Payscale offer families the chance to compare the long-term earnings of graduates. However, I believe that no scorecard can capture the profound emotional bonds formed between professors and students. For me, this connection is invaluable, and I hope my students appreciate it as much as I do.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as we reflect on the journey of education and the milestones achieved, it’s essential to cherish the relationships built along the way. Each student’s success is a testament to their hard work and resilience, and it brings joy to see them flourish in life.