The tears that flooded my eyes surprised me. I am not sure if I have ever cried seeing someone go across the stage and receive their diploma. I think it was her massive smile and confident stride-and then with diploma in hand she held it high above her head cheering-SHE DID IT!
Ellie has worked so hard. She graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Business Management and a certification in Entrepreneurship! She lived 4.5 hours away while doing it. She did it without student loans, working the whole time. We had a small 529 college savings plan that helped, it maybe covered her books throughout each year. Because she was living away from home, we gave her some money for groceries and a gym membership. Basically-SHE WORKED SO HARD! It’s amazing! We are so happy for her!
I remember after her first term, she told me “I am not learning one thing I didn’t already know.” She was sure it was pointless. That was a tough start. She graduated in high school in 2020. Her first term was almost completely online. Her classes were generals…and she was discouraged. She was frustrated by the cost and her circle of friends was small because of the covid restrictions. She stuck it out…and things got better and better each year.
She loved being with Lauren. Ellie and her cousin Lauren are a year apart but started college together. They were roommates the first three years! Lauren is one of Ellie’s all-time favorite people! They both studied business and took many of their classes together. It was awesome!
Ellie met (her now fiancé) Sam there. They were introduced by another roommate and have known each other for almost three years-dating 2 1/2. He has been a great support, cheering her on in her education.
Ellie worked for Danny in property management the last half of her senior year of high school. She only had two classes to finish and school went online because of covid, so Ellie went to work with him most days. That not only allowed her to save money for school, but also gave her a lot of work experience. She kept that work remotely after moving to St George. She did that for several years. It was great work for her, but last year she wanted to work outside of her apartment and contacted a professional she was introduced to through the business school. She began working at St George Property Management and absolutely loves it. She is continuing that work after graduation too! She loves her boss and coworkers!
There are a million ways to do life…and to step from high school into the real world. College isn’t for everyone…but it was a great way for Ellie to grow in confidence and adulthood. We are so proud of her and SO grateful for those who were able to help us celebrate:
It takes a village—and we are SOOO grateful that these people have been such a significant part of Ellie’s. We are so blessed!
carin + danny 