officially qualified to do something, at long last

So after 2 degrees, 6 years of university education, approx $AU35,000 worth of uni fees and one year of Articles, I am finally a fully qualified lawyer.

The admission ceremony was somewhat nervewracking, especially because if there is an opportunity to embarrass myself by falling over, spilling something on myself, swearing inappropriately or inadvertently showing too much boob, I'll be sure to take it. But today I did none of those things - I walked up to "the bench", I affirmed my intention to practice to the best of my abilities and to uphold my duty to "this Honourable court", I signed my affirmation, I signed the "roll of practitioners", bowed to the (3) judges and walked back to my seat. I didn't fall over. I didn't flash anyone. I didn't drop the pen. All in all, I appear to, for possibly the first time in my life, have acquitted myself with dignity (if not grace). Hurrah! I do have a year of "restricted practice", meaning I can't strike out on my own, but for all intents and purposes, I'm a qualified legal practitioner.

It was nice having my mum and dad there, because they've been so supportive throughout the whole tiresome law school / articles horror. I will always be grateful for the care, both emotional and financial, that they have provided me. I have fantastic parents, and it makes me feel blessed.

All in all, it is a weird day - everything has changed and yet everything is the same.