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SGS Student Speaker
Carol Davidson '08
School of Graduate Studies
"Good Morning and welcome to this celebration of academic achievements. I am incredibly honored and blessed to stand here before you today to represent the Hope International University School of Graduate Studies.
What a journey it has been! I am so proud and honored to be part of such a wonderful group of people, many who I can count as friends and colleagues for what I hope to be many years to come.
My personal experience at Hope has included a “change of direction” that some might find unusual, but for me it has been one that could not have been a more perfect fit. I received my Bachelors Degree in Business Management from the School of Professional Studies in 2006. Immediately following the receipt of that degree and I do mean immediately, I was accepted into the School of Graduate Studies, to pursue my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. From the very first day of classes, I knew that I had found a home. Graduate School at Hope has been exciting, fulfilling and intense!! That intensity came with a disclaimer; we were warned from the very beginning to expect an extreme experience!
One of the biggest challenges of attending graduate school is that in the midst of the intensity, life goes on, as we have all experienced. I will never forget the words of my professor and director of the MFT dept. in one of the first nights of classes. She said that during graduate school, we would experience some of the toughest times of our lives. She was right! Just think, many of you have accomplished all that has brought you here today while also working full-time jobs, raising children, and dealing with all the other obligations and events that life brings. Some of us have dealt with illnesses and loss of family members. One of my dear friends and fellow students had her first baby and still completed all her coursework on time. Another is due to have her first child this summer and has not missed a beat! It is an honor to be part of such a dedicated group of people.
We, this graduating class, wish to express our gratitude and thanks to the many dedicated professors, directors and advisors at this university, without whom none of this could have been accomplished. Their endless patience and tireless reassurance and dedication are amazing and so appreciated. The countless times that we heard the positive affirmations of “It’s going to be okay, it’s really going to be okay” and “I know you can do it, I have faith in you” meant more than words can convey. I have learned so much from all of you. One of Hope International University’s core values is the commitment to equip servant leaders in their chosen professions to change the world for Christ. The foundation that has been laid for us here at Hope will enable us to continue on the journey of life to impact others in meaningful ways and to be a witness of God’s love.
Many thanks are also owed to the family members and friends whose support and encouragement never wavered. Thank you for your faith in us, for understanding and alleviating our anxiety about exams and projects, and for cheering for us when we reached those final goals.
I would like to leave you with these words of encouragement. Jeremiah 29:11 says “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Matthew 19:26 says “With God all things are possible.” As you celebrate the culmination of all your dedication, hard work and achievement today, know that God is with you always. You have stayed the course; you have persevered and today is your day to shine!
God Bless you and Congratulations!"