Hello, world!

On Wednesday, June 6, 2012, I graduated from Brock University with my Bachelor of Education!  I can't believe it's finally happened.  I'm just waiting on my OCT number, and then I can fully and completely say that I am an Ontario Certified Teacher.  What an honour!

Instagrammed, @kristeneakins

The graduation ceremony at Brock was a lovely day.  Everyone looked great in their gowns and the smiles were contagious.  I couldn't be happier for my fellow classmates.  And, yes, we were lucky enough to be in the presence of Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes, who were there to support and celebrate Gosling's mom's graduation from the program as well!  I can't imagine not having my family there to support me on my big day, so I imagine Mrs. Gosling felt the same way.

One of the speakers at convocation was Kevin Kee from Brock's Faculty of Humanities.  He gave a moving speech about being ready for our futures, but urged us to go out and search for our future and not just sit back and wait for it to come to us.  He was adamant that things don't always go as we plan and that sometimes you take a path that you least expected to take, but which takes you where you want to be in the end.  I really appreciated his sentiments as I have been considering my options as a recent graduate.  I know that the job market is tough for teachers right now and that has put somewhat of a damper on my outlook.  However, Mr. Kee's optimism about things not always working out according to plan has really resonated with me, and his words couldn't have come at a more optimal time.  For those of you who attended the ceremony, you'll understand when I say:  Mr. Kee, I won't give up searching for my deer!  We'll all find it eventually.

Congratulations to Brock University's Class of 2012!  Best wishes to every single one of you.