For some, four years fly by in a blur of late nights and cramming sessions.

For others, it feels like an uphill climb that never quite levels out.  Although the finish line for the Class of 2026 awaits, it comes with a wave of reflection, pride and hopes for the future.

The Shield spoke with a few of USI’s graduating seniors to ask them what this moment really feels like, what they’ve accomplished and where they’re headed next.

Alicia Cotton, senior political science and philosophy double major, said the moment feels earned.

“It feels good! Mainly because I feel like I have accomplished everything I set out to do during undergrad,” Cotton writes.

During her time at USI, Cotton was  part of many student groups on campus, including the Student Government Association and the Political Science Society to Orientation Leaders, the Activities Programming Board, and a volunteer at USI.

“I learned to plan events and network, and recognized the importance of attending events where I could present my research,” she said.

Cotton’s next step is to pursue a law degree and work as an attorney.

“The thing I am going to miss the most is my community,” Cotton said. “I have made such amazing, caring, and compassionate friends who have been there for me every step of the way.”

She also said students have a support system to help them navigate their time at USI.

“There are so many people, from students to faculty and staff, who are more than willing to help you pursue your goals and help you succeed in your future career; all you have to do is reach out and ask for help,” Cotton said.

Wanjiru Theuri, senior psychology major, said graduating feels weird. 

 “It feels really weird, because it feels like a long time ago, but at the same time it doesn’t,” she said.

With applications already in and being reviewed, she plans to return to USI to pursue a master’s in social work. After working in social work for some time, she said she will then pursue her  Ph.D., so she can become a professor.

Theuri continues to goes on to say, “It’s just very weird to be almost finished with something you didn’t think was gonna be finished for a while.”

When asked about what she’s achieved, Theuri said,“I used to be really shy. I was just scared of meeting new people, and I used to be so set in my ways.” 

Leonna Benton, senior political science major, said graduating doesn’t feel real yet., 

“Honestly, it still doesn’t feel real. Growing up, I always told myself I was going to get my college degree,” Benton writes.“To have now accomplished that, I could not be prouder of myself.”

When asked about what she’s achieved, Benton said, she not only gained a degree but relationships.

“My network has grown extensively. I have achieved being able to handle some of the most prestigious leadership positions, while working and keeping up with outside things,” Benton said.

After graduation, she plans on receiving her MBA at USI. 

Benton has been a part of many student organizations.. 

She’s been a welcome leader for the past two years, President, Executive Vice President and Chief Justice of the Student Government Association. She’s also been Vice President of the Pre-Law club, Women Unlocked, Historian for the Black Student Union, and a Mock Trial team captain.

“I’m going to miss all my friends here at school! Truly, they have shaped me into who I am today. Along with the faculty members, professors, and administration, they truly poured into me these last four years,” Benton writes.

Lily Basham, senior elementary education major, said graduating is becoming a bittersweet moment., 

“As I am ending my senior year, it is a bittersweet moment that came so soon,” Basham said.

After graduation, Bashaum will begin a new chapter as a teacher. 

In her four years, Basham has been  part of College Mentors for Kids, the America Reads Program, and the Treasurer of the Kappa Delta Pi Education Honor Society.

“The thing I will miss most at USI is the great community and the friends I’ve made along the way. I have met some of the most incredible people that I could not have made it without,” Basham said.