By Matthew Burgoyne
Staff Writer

Congratulations graduates! You are about to embark on what will hopefully be a very successful and fruitful life. But before you go, I thought I could give you (and your parents) a few words of wisdom seeing as how I just graduated from college. Not that a college degree gives me infinite knowledge, but I have at least been through the experience.
Here are five things to remember (or to do) as you start the rest of your lives.
1) Work Hard. - High school may be over, but the work isn’t. In order to be successful you have to put in the time. Plus, why waste all that money on doing nothing?
2) Explore. - Now is your chance to really explore life and find out what you want to take out of yours. During my four years at the University of Georgia, I wanted to keep exploring. I changed my major seven times (which is fine no matter what anyone says). Discover who you are and what you want to accomplish.
3) Study Abroad. - So, you don’t have to do this one, but it is beyond worth it. In December 2007, I went to Antarctica. No, I am not joking. It was one of the best experiences of my life. Though not everyone can or wants to study abroad, I definitely recommend it.
4) Branch Out. - Try things you never dreamed of trying. You may find something that you will continue to do the rest of your life. I thought I hated tomatoes, but I love them now. That probably wasn’t the best example, but it was the first one I thought of.
5) Don’t forget those who got you where you are now. Basically, your family. As you go out and become an independent adult, remember that you would not be here without the help of those that love you. They may annoy you from time to time, but they are always there for you. Plus, you may need a place to crash after you graduate so it is good to stay in their good graces.
I didn’t forget the parents. Here are a few tips for you. And I didn’t just make these up. My mom helped me.
1) Let Go. - You have raised wonderful children and it is time to let them go and become what ever they want to be. They have a life to live on their own. Before you stop reading, go to number two.
2) Don’t let them go to far. - Yes, they need to experience life for themselves, but they still need your support. Allow them to have triumphs and make mistakes, but be there to help them get through those situations. They won’t mind having the support.
3) Take time for you. - You have spent the last 18 years working hard to raise great humans. Take a break. As they are out doing what they please, just sit and relax. I guess this one only applies if you have one child or if your last child is graduating. If that isn’t the case, just count down the years until you can take your well deserved break.
4) Be proud and continue to be proud. - Your children have accomplished so much already and they have so much more to accomplish still. Be proud of them because their work is a reflection of you.
You don’t have to take my advice. I am only 21. But, I having been out of the nest for over four years now, I think I can offer some helpful hints to those just beginning their journey. Good luck Class of 2008!