The context of the following conversation is Despite all of the drama and difficulty that year, Sydney stayed the course and graduated.:
Sydney says This year was so stressful, I almost dropped out of school..
The friend responds But you stayed, and you graduated!  That's awesome..
Sydney responds Thanks.  It took a lot of work, but I pulled it off..
The friend responds I'm really impressed.  You did have a tough year..
Sydney responds I'm just glad I was able to focus and finish.  I'm so glad to be done..
The friend responds I'm proud of you!.