Call me MASTER!

Cinco De Mayo was a FABULOUS day! I officially graduated from my master's program at the University of Utah. It was a LONG draining two years and I can't believe I didn't quit halfway through. We lived in Provo and I commuted to Salt Lake City almost every day for almost two years. It was physically draining and mentally challenging but I survived. If it weren't for my two friends I met and carpooled with, I wouldn't have done it. It was hard but I look forward to feeling accomplished and getting a good job to confirm my decision was a good one. I graduated in Speech Language Pathology.(aka. Speech Therapy). I chose the major because I wanted to make a difference and improve someone's quality of life. I hope to feel fulfilled once I start working and meeting people who struggle everyday to communicate or function independently because of a stroke, disorder, brain injury or whatever it may be.

My wonderful family came to support me on the big day. My parents drove from AZ and my in-laws and grandmother's were so sweet to come. So my father-in-law was asking me how I wanted to celebrate and I sarcastically said I want a "jimmer face". For those of you who don't know, Jimmer Fredette was a BYU basketball player who became an idol. He was famous for a fan blowing up a picture of his head and bringing it to the game and waving it around in the stands. Well with that one conversation, I had almost forgotten I made that joke.

During the ceremony, I walked in and sat down and a friend of mine leans over and mouths "Is that your face?" I look up into the arena and see this...

My big face. And not just one... There's TWO!

This is me doing the "Utes" sign.

I made two of the best friends. Rocio and Lindsey. We made the best out of the commute and danced, talked, and studied during our hour drives. They are incredible girls and I am so lucky to have gotten to know them so well. We know each other better than we would have been able to without the commute, so I guess that is the positive that comes out of the commute. These girls kept me sane, helped me get my good grades through many study sessions, and let me vent any frustrations. I will miss seeing them every day!

Me and my master's "Hood".

My huge face was a hit. Everyone around us were pointing and gasping in awe over how funny and awesome it was. It definitely made me feel special despite the ugly pictures they chose haha. I have the best in-laws!

The graduating class of 2011!!
School is officially over for me and I am ready to PARTAAY!!