I'm not a huge fan of cheesy, inspirational sayings about the meaning of life. Do I really need someone to remind me to "seize the day" or "make every moment count?" To me, all this sap seems like common sense. I guess I'm realistic, not romantic.

If faced with the sentimental, I usually turn and run the other direction. But there are uncomfortable situations one can never avoid in life, such as good-byes.

I feel like I've been saying goodbye all my life and there has been nothing good about it. I moved and changed school districts in fifth grade. Grandparents and loved ones have passed away over the years. My best friend moved to Nebraska before eighth grade. Then came college when I was perpetually leaving either family or friends. To top it off, I've been in a long-distance relationship for the better part of three years. It's always tough, but I found that you also have to be tough to make it through all these experiences in one piece.

As I enter the final stretch of four glorious years of higher education, I am realizing that life comes at you fast, and there is nothing you can do but let it hit you, knowing there are times when it will sting a little. Forget the dramatics and try to deal with it. This may seem harsh, but that's my coping method and I'm stickin' to it.

I suppose like any normal senior graduating in May, I should be looking back and reflecting on my years in State College. Maybe I should be sitting somewhere sipping a cappuccino and thoughtfully contemplating how my life has been enriched by this experience, smiling over fond memories and sighing over a few regrets. Really? Do I have to? Can't I just skip all of that?

I know I'm leaving soon. Penn State knows I'm leaving soon -- they accepted my intent to graduate. I bought my cap and gown and some announcements. Can't I just accept my diploma and a firm handshake, say "thanks" and call it a day?

Most of us went through all the pomp and circumstance four years ago when high school was over. It was the end of an era but nothing to get all choked up about. I didn't forget what I learned and the people who touched my life back then. I didn't look back a whole lot either. I plan to do the same this time around.

True, graduating from Penn State will be different than graduating from high school. This time things are really going to change. We'll have to get jobs and, dare I say it, have real-world responsibilities. As hard as it may be to let go of the shelter and security that University Park has offered over the years, I'm not running for a box of Kleenex. If I really took advantage of all this place had to offer, shouldn't I be ready to face the future? This isn't a rhetorical question; the answer is yes.

Sure college is about to end, but think of all that's beginning. It's time to move on to bigger and better things. This doesn't mean that the good times and good friends will be thrown out the window -- I'll carry them with me forever. Penn State is now a part of who I am. This also isn't the time for another emotional goodbye, it's time to be excited for what's next. Despite all the uncertainty attached to my employment situation, I know exactly what I'm going to do when I leave Happy Valley -- I'm going to live my life, the whole darn thing is right in front of me.

No muss, no fuss, just the way I like it.