This Is Just the Beginning

Leonard Rebito Graduation Toga

They say graduation is the finish line, but the truth is, it’s only the starting point.

When I look at this picture of myself in a toga, I see more than just a degree. I see the years of hard work, sleepless nights, doubts, and moments I wanted to give up. Taking a bachelor’s degree isn’t easy; many times, I questioned if I could even finish. But nothing prepared me for the reality that comes after graduation.

Though I graduated back in August 2022, the reflections hit me now more than ever. I only got around to sharing this today, almost three years later, because lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about the journey that came after that moment.

Stepping out into the world, I realized something that no classroom ever taught me: everyone starts at the bottom. No matter your grades, no matter your course, most of us come out unsure of where to go next. Should I follow someone else’s path? Should I try to create my own? Am I already falling behind?

But here’s the truth I’ve learned: life isn’t a race.

It’s okay to take your time. It’s okay to feel lost. And it’s okay if your journey looks different from everyone else’s. Some of us find success early. Some of us take a few wrong turns before we figure things out. Some of us change direction completely, and that’s perfectly fine.

What matters is that you don’t give up.

Your timeline is yours for a reason. You’re not late. You’re not too early. You’re exactly where you need to be to grow, learn, and become the person you’re meant to be. It’s not about rushing to the finish line; it’s about staying focused on your goal and trusting that your time will come.

So if you’re reading this and feeling unsure about where you’re headed, I want you to remember: you’re not alone. We all go through hard times. We all doubt ourselves. But we also all have our perfect moment. Just keep going.


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