I love you guys.

I just realized nobody on this forum ever takes a second to appreciate all the hard work we put in and all the great knowledge we share with each other.

A year ago I graduated from HS and entered my local CC because I had no clue what was really for me. I was a Computer Science major at the time and I also joined this forum at the exact same time. Reason being? I found out that one of my favorite automotive youtubers is a former investment banker. Throughout HS, and even still, I run a small business online: reselling and consigning rare sneakers/designer streetwear/hyped up clothing. I have always had a passion for business, meeting new people, and making deals.

By teaching myself how to make a proper self assessment, I was able to find my strengths and discovered they are perfectly in line with a future in IB/Consulting/CorpFin. I learned that this was the path I was meant to take, and this future is what will open doors for what I want to do much later down the line. If it wasn't for the invaluable knowledge that all of you busy workers are able to share during your only off time, I wouldn't be anywhere near as informed and prepared as I am today, only one year later.

I now have a great and relevant part time job. I have had a reason to maintain a great GPA in order to transfer to a semi/target (thanks to my new goal and path that I want to take in life, I am too motivated to let any difficult assignment negatively effect my future). I am the president of two finance and business clubs on campus, and I also am interviewing in the fall at some semi-targets that I hope to earn admittance to! Shit, this summer i'm studying financial markets abroad in London! None of this would exist or be possible without WSO, and for that I will be forever grateful; because very rarely can you acknowledge and thank something so intangible for changing your life.

I'm only 19 years old and have much more work to do. I have a lot to learn, a lot of networking to do, and most importantly, a lot of self-development to complete before I can say i'm even remotely prepared for a coveted SA position. However, I know that I will always be one step ahead of the majority by being an active member on this forum. Even trolls like @my name is goldstein" have taught me what not to do! Huge shout out to @TNA" @thebrofessor" @IlliniProgrammer" @Sil" @DickFuld" & @blacksoros" and all of you rainmakers for all the insight and advice! I cannot wait to share my future story on @WallStreetOasis.com" for the next generation of bankers. I'd also like to thank @FratLord" for being the funniest douchebag i've ever come across on a forum.

If you truly want it, you can do it. I've learned that you must have the will to never give up, for your mindset will either make you- or break you. I may not be there yet, but the future is bright.

I shall now leave you guys with my favorite line from As a Man Thinketh. "It is not our circumstance that controls us, but our thoughts that control our circumstance."

Mod Note (Andy): top 50 posts of 2017, this one ranks #48 (based on # of silver bananas)