***This poem is dedicated to all of my friends who are getting their doctorate degrees along with me now.***

Whether we started together
Doesn't matter, we met
At some point, our paths crossed
For a few days, six weeks, longer

Now, time has passed
Wherever in your program you are
Please listen to me
You got this
You will make it
Your time will come

Whether still in class
Or onto DP or ADP
Don't saddle yourself with worry
We are all going to make it
At our pace, whatever that is

Remember, what they told us
Only 3% of Americans have their doctorates
We're a select few, who've chosen
To follow our dreams to the
Ultimate completion

I would love to walk at graduation with
All of you but that's not to be
Still, we are one because we've
Had each other's backs since we met

Even if we don't talk much
Our bond is strong and something
Few understand
Our road is only walked by us

So on hard days
On crazy and frustrating days
When everything seems to be
Going to hell
Remember, you're not alone
Pep talk to remind you

You got this
You shall finish
Walk away our path, head held high
Be proud, you're already a winner
Because I already am.