I’ll never forget the day that I was sent to rehab. I was wrecked, totally disoriented, and my life had completely fallen apart. I’d lost everything from my apartment, to my family, and even my friends. Bitterness and devastation became my norm. Life, at that moment, felt like a death sentence. And as I walked through those gated rehab doors, I couldn’t help but think that the world was out to get me. A year later, however, I’m proud to say that I’m sober in mind, and I’ve successfully completed my first semester as a Neuroscience student at the esteemed University of Delaware. I also have a handful of friends whom I love and cherish – something that I never imagined would happen for me again.

It’s odd. One moment, you’re on the brink of death. And the next you’re walking on air. I feel elated. Not just at the fact that the semester is over and I’ll have more time for my baby (this blog), but because I truly conquered the past 15 weeks. I worked my a** off in all my classes, and the fruits of my labor are oh-so-sweet. I went from a college dropout working dead-end jobs, to a focused and committed student of life – eager to learn everything from Biochemistry to Organizational Communication. It was challenging, I’m not going to lie, but it feels so good to accomplish my goals.

One of my favorite quotes says, “Hard work betrays none.” I resonate deeply with this quote because it reminds me that self-belief and hard work will always earn you success. I had a conversation earlier with my best friend, Myel, about how everything is a manifestation of the soul. Whatever you think about, becomes reality. All of the energy you put out into the universe, bounces right back to you. That’s incredibly fascinating to me. The fact that the world is our oyster and we can make anything out if using only our thoughts. I don’t think anything in this life is unrealistic as long as you truly believe in it. For example, I’ve been manifesting coming back to school for three years now, and it finally happened for me this fall. Now that I’m here, I can’t help but smile because this is the best decision I’ve made in my life. I finally feel… alive again.

All the late nights, tutoring sessions, and 8am classes – paid off. I get to rest for 2 months now; knowing that I did my absolute best. There is NO better feeling, in my opinion, than knowing you gave something your ALL. Whether it’s a relationship, school, or a job, putting your best foot forward is vital to happiness and success. I’m so grateful that you get to come along this journey with me. And if you’re reading this and contemplating on whether you should go back to school, I say – like Nike – JUST DO IT. It’s an investment that you won’t regret, especially if you fully apply yourself. I know what it’s like to be a college dropout. That experience had me homeless for the entire beginning of my 20s. Working for “the man” just to live pay-check to pay-check was my ultimate struggle. But now, I’m dedicated towards creating a better life for myself. I have a roof over my head, thank God, and an amazing, supportive team that makes sure all my needs are met. I am beyond thankful!

The best part about ending my semester, however, is that I now have more time to interact with YOU. Writing for myself, and for your pleasure, is the greatest joy of my life. And I’m so excited for everything that I have in store for you. I’m about to go out and celebrate this huge milestone, so I unfortunately have to keep this specific blog post brief. Nevertheless, you’ll be seeing a lot more of me – and that’s a promise I intend to keep. Thank you for supporting my art. If no one has told you this today, I love you and you’re capable of achieving anything and everything you set you mind to.

Amen.

Sincerely,

Stacy Rahaka.