Next Thursday, I’ll be participating in Rochester Community and Technical College’s spring commencement ceremony, receiving a certificate in photography. Last spring, I never imagined this is where I’d be today, but I couldn’t be happier.

If you asked me last spring where I’d be today, my answer would have been finishing my freshman year at Arizona State University. Hardly a day has gone by where I wonder what it would be like if I had still gone there, but I really don’t regret my decision to stay at home.

With my anxiety, I think I really would have struggled being away. Being home has allowed me to grow as a person. I’ve taken on a lot of responsibilities around the house.

Last week, I took out my first loan to buy a motorcycle and also got my own first insurance policy for it, which I’m proud of because getting my motorcycle endorsement and buying my own bike was on my bucket list and I’m happy to say I’ve crossed it off!

Making the decision to stay at home left me with the decision of where I wanted to go to school and what I want to go for. I’ve always been interested in photography, so to find RCTC’s program was really a blessing to me. This summer, I’ll be working on finishing my associate’s degree and beginning classes online at Bemidji State University, starting my bachelor’s degree in elementary education. I’ve really been drawn to online classes. I love the flexibility they allow, especially because I tend to be a night owl.

I’ve also taken on the responsibility of not one, but two jobs. This summer I will also be directing the Bayside Water Ski Show Team weekly shows. I also plan to grow my photography business this summer.

While I may not be where I thought I would be a year ago, I am glad I am where I am now. I’ve matured a lot in the last few months and learned a lot about who I am. I may not be taking the conventional college route, but I’m doing what works for me. Most importantly, I’m happy.

 

Albert Lea High School graduate Erin Murtaugh is a first-year student at Rochester Community and Technical College. She can be reached at murtaugh.erin@gmail.com.