Destiny-Rose M. Bataya - Leeward CC Commencement Celebration 2021 Graduate

Keali'i is always willing to smile and lick my face as he waits for me daily at the gate of my house. You've helped me so much more than you know.

These family members helped me through my four semesters in Leeward Community College.

Everyone needs an escape when they are going through college. Mine was dancing Tahitian and going to the gym.

These people made the biggest impact on my college career. Thank you mom, dad, and Keanu for loving me and pushing me to go beyond the stars in my career.

My collage of those who have supported me through my roughest times, and was always there when I needed endless support and love. Thank you to everyone in this collage, I owe you guys so much more than you've given to me.

Thank you to my parents who have always supported me through all my endeavors in life. You guys have never stopped supporting me to become the best version of myself. Thank you for everything you've sacrificed so I can be here today. I love you guys!

Thank you to my family for always being there in support of my decisions in life, and life's bumps in the road. Without you all, I would have never gotten across the mountains in life to see the beautiful scenery around me. Thank you for always being there for me.

Finally, I want to thank my boyfriend and his family for being there for me during this journey. You all gave me undying support in my educational journey and flew from one island to another for my accomplishments. Mahalo for your love and guidance you've given me all these years.

Leeward Community College taught me that change was inevitable but it was never a bad thing. This college campus supported me in so many ways: educational, planning, support in college choices, and any help I needed for my classes. Thank you Leeward CC staff and students for not only helping me succeed on this journey but helping me learn to swim through college before I jump into the sea the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa has in store for me. If it were not for your amazing counselors, professors, and student helpers: I would not be ready to transfer to UH with ease. I will never forget this campus, and I will never forget the pride I have graduating from this college. Mahalo iā ʻoe Leeward CC.

"Your worst enemy cannot harm you as much as your own unguarded thoughts." -Buddha

Remember this quote as you go on with your education at any college campus you desire. The only person we can blame for our defeats is ourselves. This quote kept me striving through college, and helped me realize that whatever happens in life, good or bad, it's because I let it happen and I worked towards that end. Always remember that we are our biggest enemy, and we are our weakest player on the team. Once we remember that, not only will we take accountability for our actions, but we take pride in the accomplishments we have made thus far.