Seniors count down the days until Graduation

The countdown is on as McMurry seniors mark their calendar days leading up to the big moment. Graduation day, the day students have worked up to for years, is just a month away. In this final month, many students find themselves navigating feelings of uncertainty, worry, change, and many decisions to be made. Whether students plans include grad school, a new job, or moving out of Abilene, we know these War Hawks are on their way to success.  

I interviewed four students that are heavily involved around campus and asked them questions that allowed them to reflect on their time at McMurry. The first senior is Carmen Velasquez, and she is President of Delta Beta Epsilon, Sweetheart for KIVA Men’s Fraternity, member of McMurry Student Government (MSG), and part of the Honors program. Next is Tana Thomas, who was crowned Miss McMurry during Homecoming this year. She is also Co Cheer Captain, a member of Delta Beta Epsilon, sweetheart for KIVA Men’s Fraternity, and she is a part of Track & Field. Dominic Carroll follows, and he is President of KIVA Men’s Fraternity, Attorney General for MSG, a Residence Assistant, and he is in the Servant Leadership Program. Last but not least is Jack Greenwald, and he is President of the Fraternity Makona, Sweetheart for Gamma Sigma, member of the Wingmen, member of MSG, and he is a player on the Tennis team.   

These seniors were asked what would be one sentence they would say to their freshman self, and what they wished they knew. Velasquez encourages students to “be open and live without regrets,” while Thomas emphasizes not being afraid to put yourself out there. Similarly, Carroll notes the importance of self-compassion, reminding his younger self to “not to be so critical,” and Greenwald highlights the value of simply enjoying each day.   

Beyond advice, students shared lessons they will carry beyond college. Several emphasized growth through uncertainty. Velasquez reflected that “growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone,” and that some of the best opportunities and experiences she has had came from moments where she felt unsure or even a little scared. Thomas noted that even when things don’t go as planned, one has to keep moving forward. Carroll expanded on this idea, explaining that growth “is not linear,” and Greenwald added that success often comes from creating your own opportunities.  

Lastly, when asked about their favorite memories, many pointed to relationships and defining moments. For Velasquez, it was the friendships that made campus feel like home. Thomas highlighted winning Mr. and Miss McMurry with her fiancé, while Carroll found community in KIVA Men’s Fraternity. Greenwald reflected on his junior year tennis season as a standout experience. These moments not only define their time at McMurry, but also reflect the growth that comes with the college journey. 

Time at McMurry flies by fast, and it is important to trust the process and understand that everything does not have to go perfectly or to plan. Unexpected paths can lead to lessons learned, new experiences, and lots of memories. Take advantage of this time in your life: try new things, find your community, and take chances. To all graduating seniors, I wish you the best of luck as you take the next step into your future!