Senior Reporter
Rascal Flatts put it best in their song, when they sang, “Life’s like a road that you travel on—when there’s one day here and the next day gone.” Like turning pages of a book, every journey is like a chapter, with a beginning and end. I often look through old photos on my phone to remind myself to not shy too far away from the traits that I like about myself. Inevitably, though, changes are obvious—whether it be my hair, my style, my smile, my relationships with people, and even new and old faces. College is not an easy journey; it isn’t cheap either. However, with the right mindset and a strong support system, the journey becomes worthwhile.
My CSU Bakersfield journey started with me flying back from a birthday trip from Hawaii in 2013. Ironically enough, the trip was for my grandfather’s funeral, not really my birthday. We just flew out there on the day of my birthday. With a heavy heart, I started my CSUB journey, after obtaining an associate’s degree in communication and liberal studies from Bakersfield College, focused on just finishing up school. These new faces became part of my support system, study groups, party buddies, and shopping companions.
We took classes together; some we really liked and some we thought were really pointless. Making a positive impact has always been a goal of mine. And as a communications major, I thought I had the perfect platform to do so. This was proven to me when Jennifer Burger, communications lecturer, discovered my gift for photography in our photojournalism class during the winter 2014 quarter. Seeing my photo assignments on the newspaper made me proud of myself, but just as I felt the year was getting better, my Aunt Femy gives in to her battle with breast cancer.
Despite the tragedy, my family became united, and I connected with cousins that I did not think I would ever be close to. Moreover, this event made me realize how, not only my siblings, but also our cousins look up to me. I saw this as an honor but also as a tremendous challenge. I felt my achievements get recognized, but my mistakes amplified. Making big mistakes and isolating myself because of them became my biggest challenge during my senior year. At twenty-three, I thought I figured out who I was, but my mistakes made me lose who that is; I’m still picking up the broken pieces and trying to figure out how to dismiss all the negativity in my mind.
Despite the set backs, I’m close to the last page of my CSUB chapter. Staying optimistic is the hardest thing to do when so many challenges are thrown at you, but I’m blessed to be surrounded by amazing people at school, at home, around the community, at work, everywhere. As graduation nears and my undergraduate journey ends, it is time for me to pack my bags and relax. Besides, I have a few trips planned for the rest of the year: Hawaii, Manila, Tokyo, and Singapore. And I have a few tips for you to keep in mind during your summer travels. Under-packing is better than over-packing.
Keep your baggage light to maximize ease of travel. Besides, I’m sure that there will be stores at your destination where you can buy a pair of shorts, shirts, even lotion and toothpaste, in case you decide to leave those at home. You can always fill the extra space in your bag with new pieces that you get from shopping!
Live on samples. No, not from Costco. Prior to your trip, go to your favorite stores and ask for samples of your moisturizer, fragrance, and make up if you wear that. Not only will customs not worry about the size of your packed fluids, you will also save even more space in your bag. Invest in sturdy luggage. Price tags can get intimidating, but for something that you can use for years to come, don’t be afraid to splurge.
A sales associate from Tumi, a luxury travel accessories brand, told me that they have had customers come back to their store twenty years after their purchase for minor repairs. Twenty years! Classic style. Awesome quality. Stay safe. I’m all for adrenaline experiences—cliff diving, sky diving, zip lining—you name it. Next on my to-do list is bungee jumping. However, we have to make sure that no matter where you go, your life is your optimum priority. Your loved ones want to see you back in one piece. Spread positivity. Smile at strangers. Learn to say “thank you” in different languages. Explore different foods; food is always positive.
And have nothing but good days on your vacation. As for myself, I have had the best time writing fashion related stories, styling photo shoots, and getting feedback from people about my stories. Thank you for a great journey. Follow the last few weeks of my senior year on YouTube.com/PrinceCrismat, where I vlog my daily endeavors.
The good. The bad. The fashionable. The bad-hair-days.
See you later, ‘Runners!
