The context of the following conversation is After studying very hard and for a long time, Kai earned a master's degree.:
Kai says Woohoo I passed the exam, I am now the proud owner of a master's degree!.
The friend responds Congrats! I am so proud of you!.
Kai responds All that hard and constant studying paid off!.
The friend responds So, It was worth sacrificing all those weekend trips to the beach for the past two summers?.
Kai responds Well that was rough! Haha, but I am glad I stayed focused and on track, this degree means the world to me.
The friend responds I am so happy for you now you start applying for those positions you were looking at.