As my classmates and I processed into the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on graduation day, I couldn’t help but think back to the Class of 2017’s Convocation ceremony where we were welcomed into the community that would become our home away from home. As I reminisce on my four years at the Catholic University of America, I can honestly say they were the best, toughest, and most fruitful years of my life. College can be a difficult place to hold onto your faith and even your true self, especially when surrounded by the wrong crowd. Fortunately, God blessed me with amazing friends who not only embraced the idea of authentic friendships (thank you, Fraternas), but also challenged me every day to grow closer to Christ and live my life according to His will.
But even with these amazing friends by my side, there were times when I would fall, only to find myself desperate to be back in a good place. Once upon a mental breakdown and a much-needed heart-to-heart, my roommate said to me, “Repeat after me: this is good, God is good.” It became our motto, our mantra. It was this mantra that I repeated countless times through the trials (which were by no means in short supply) and joys of time at CUA. College was definitely a rollercoaster sprinkled with lots of ups and downs; but with the love and support from my family and friends and my faith in God’s will, I survived! And I am ready and excited to take on my career in nursing and all that life has to offer.
This is good, God is good.
By: Xiomara Galeano
