My office is having me a college grad party tommorrow....

Hello Everyone,

I am new to the site, I stumbled across it while searching for forums that could possibly help me with my anxiety of public speaking. I'm hoping I could get the help of others on what to say tomorrow during this gathering we'll be having at my office tomorrow.

Just a little about myself, I just turned 27 years old and for the last 7 years I've worked for an insurance company in Los Angeles as an assistant for several claim adjusters, full-time. I graduated from high school in 2003 and just this year I am receiving my AA degree, which is what my office is having me a party for. Not only will all the personnel in my department be participating but so will all sorts of high level managers and VP's, etc..All of which, have degrees and certifications, etc.. Honestly, I'm a little embarrassed and intimidated by all of those who will be there. I know I shouldn't be, because over the years I have gained quite a good reputation with the people I work with. I just feel embarrassed not only because it has taken me so long just to get my AA degree, but also because its feels like its going to take me another 5-7 years just to get my BS degree. One of the others issues that intimidates me is the fact that I feel as if I have a stuttering issue. I don't know if its caused by nervousness, but I catch myself stuttering at time when talking to people. I know that they are going to be asking me questions, such as

"So what are you majoring in?" - Finance (I have a interest in stocks)

"Where do you plan on going to school?" - This is the questions that really gets me stuttering, and I'm afraid it may come off as if I am unsure with what my plans are. To be honest, I haven't even began applying to the local universities, as I have one more course I need to transfer. Not only that but I have yet to research the application process. I've already been asked this question recently and I'll let them know that I will be looking to apply to several Cal States within the area, and everyone I have told that to acts like if I'm about to make a huge mistake. They'll say "you should try getting into a really good school" like USC or UCLA. As if, only if I go to either of these prestigious universities will I receive a good education.

I'm breaking my head with trying to put just a quick little thank you speech together. Just thanking everyone for taking time out of their day to celebrate this mini accomplishment of mine and also thanking management for being flexible (with work schedule) and supportive while I work towards continuing my education (does that sound right?). I'd like to also let them know that I am very happy to be apart of such a great team and I look forward to continuing to work there.

Can anyone help me put something together so I don't sound clueless to everyone. What would be my best response to "where do you plan on going to school" question.

I appreciate any help.