My high school diploma is not only a representation of my accomplishment of graduating from high school, but also a constant reminder of my newfound responsibilities as a student, a scholar, and a man. Graduation symbolizes independence, maturity, and responsibility. As a high school student, many things were out of my control and it was easy to attribute mistakes or shortcomings on others. As a college student, everything is a reflection of you- success and failure. The diploma illustrates past success as well as future challenges and aspirations. I plan to graduate from college in four years, attend a post secondary school, and attain a career in the medical profession.