Adulthood is a mess of emotions. Adulthood at the age of 22 is like a stage of limbo. I feel stuck in-between childhood and adulthood – not necessarily still a teenager, but not a full-fledged adult either. It’s strange.

The strangest aspect of adulthood is waking up bright and early, downing a steaming mug of coffee, and walking into your first professional interview for a desirable career. That’s right ladies and gents, yesterday morning I had my first big girl interview. To say it was scary, is the understatement of the century. I’m already a neurotic mess; so, adding on the stress of an interview for a teaching position induced a wave of anxiety not necessary before graduating today.

Side note: I graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Education and English this morning. I made it. These past few days as I’ve sat with friends and in quiet reflection, I realized how fortunate I am to even be in this position. However, it was a stressful 4 years filled with countless memories and stories – some of which have not even graced the pages of The Truth About Coffee; so, be on the lookout. I am proud of the accomplishments I’ve made.

My interview Friday morning put all of my hard work into perspective, and whether or not I get the job, it was still a valuable experience. I find it hard to put into words – and I like to think that I have a way with words at times – just how passionate I am about teaching. Because I finished student teaching two weeks ago, I’ve found myself itching to grace the podium once more. I will find a job because I cannot imagine doing anything else at this stage of my life (besides potentially writing a novel). But why not multitask and continue to stress myself out to max capacity?

Even just talking about myself and teaching in an interview gave me the same rush as my first day in front of the classroom. I am ready for this. Talking about writing and literature and teaching methods makes me want to plan another lengthy unit and dive into more research. While this may sound crazy to some, it’s my forte. I managed to discover where I fit in the professional world, and it is most certainly as Miss Disabella.

And for me, the journey never ends. I am an organized individual. I set high standards and goals for myself. I know what I want in this life. Therefore, I have what I like to call a career bucket list that compiles all of those things that I wish to accomplish in the next 20 years. Some of those goals most would deem unattainable, but I’ll get there one day.

Hearing my name this morning as I accepted the piece of paper that stands in place of the diploma until it arrives, was one of the first checkmarks off of my professional bucket list. After completing the graduation salute and watching as caps filled the crisp spring air, my future became more of a reality to me. I’m on the track to success in anything I pursue and put work into. I am an educated woman.

The hardest part about this morning was knowing how much I’ll miss the convenience of college, of knowing that I have time to spare before life takes over and I have to face the world by myself. But I guess for me that will never really be the case.

I have an amazing support system. My family – including our Yorkie Bella – made the trek to Ohio to watch me take this milestone. I have fantastic friends, friends I’ll never lose touch with because they are truly a wonderful group of ladies and gents. But most importantly, I have the willingness and drive to make the most of my life and career because this degree allows me to do what I love to do.

While I don’t entirely know what the future holds just yet, I know that I’ll be just fine. When the timing is right, the perfect job will come my way, and I’ll adapt accordingly. I get to start my summer off with a much needed trip with the girls. We’ll hit the streets of New York to catch a Broadway show and take a trip to the beach for some sun and sand. Stay tuned for some interesting content in the next week.

As the temperatures rise, and the stress of undergrad dissipates, I find myself contemplating writing a novel in my spare time, maybe even a collection of poems or short stories. Who knows? I guess you avid readers will just have to wait in anticipation as I move onto the next chapter in The Truth About Coffee, one day and one steaming mug at a time. Until the next adventure …