All done

Seven months ago I never thought I would still be here, finishing up my practicum materials. After having been at Cummins for so long I was nostalgic the last few days that I worked. Even though I know I am welcome to go back any time I want just to say hi, I was still walking around all day saying to myself "This is the last time I'll ...". It was the last time I would make lunch, or run group, or keep the consumers from arguing. The last time I would run to help Pam, or the last time I would learn something from Pam. I felt closer to Pam the entire time I was there than anyone else I worked with. Pam had just recently finished college as well and could relate to what I was going through. She actually acted as though she needed me, and was always happy when I was there to work.
After having ran group so many times in the past six months, it did not upset me at all that the last few days Amanda suggested I work on my learning plan instead of doing group activities. That was just less time I had to work on it at home. It also made it easier to keep up with blogs, and other items that often needed Cummins' information that I could only get from there. So my last days were spent at the desk, working on the learning plan and meeting with Amanda to be sure we had everything needed. I was surprised at how much of a role Amanda took to aid me with my learning plan. She had many materials for every item, even adding extras just in case 1-2 was not enough. Even though it was my responsibility she made sure I had everything, and helped with the things I did not have.
I knew the consumers would be sad to see me go, but that is how it always is when we end things in our lives. At least it was done on a good note, with the invitation to come back any time. This has been an unexpected, yet wonderful experience the whole way. And as everyone always says, I know I will remember my first practicum...all 320 hours of it!