As the Dean called my name to go up the stage and claim my diploma, I cannot help but cry. The tears are testament of how hard my life has been throughout my 4 years of college life. It has been full of ups and downs with majority of it as downs; endless job search in San Diego just to get by each day, and working odd jobs here and there so that I can have enough money to pay for school. I managed to finish college without asking for help from my parents. This diploma is the crowning glory of it all. Everything else I put behind me in order to face a new tomorrow. This time I will be able to apply for high-paying jobs and have the chance to climb up the ladder of success. Yes, this diploma is the key to my new and fruitful life ahead.