I'll be honest: I've been counting down the day's until graduation. Half of this is because of how excited I am to finally walk across that stage and get my diploma after all of my hard work, and the other half of me counts down because I'm terrified.
School has been my entire life for the past four years. It has brought me joy, friendship, some very late nights, lots of tears, and memories I wouldn't change for anything. But now? I'll be leaving.
This upcoming change is going to require a few adjustments (and by a few, I mean a lot), but as much as I am scared and sad to leave, I know there are great things ahead of me. There are just a few things we seniors need to do before graduation:
1. Decorate Your Cap.
It's got to be cute. And sentimental. And traditional. And funny. And reference something that no one will understand... and it's got to all fit.
2. Do A "Bang Out" Weekend With Friends
Everyone will be going separate ways soon, so it's important to get together and relish in the time you have left.
3. Get Through Finals.
This sucks because, well, senioritis.
4. Figure Out What You're Doing For Summer
Because after a densely packed semester, you can't stomach the idea of doing nothing for two months. A solid week of nothing should suffice.
5. Say Goodbye to Professors and Friends
This one is particularly difficult. Goodbyes suck, especially when they involve such a large presence in your life.
6. Say Thank You to Professors and Friends
Because, really, are there any other words?
7. Try to Coordinate Family Plans and Friend Plans for Post-Graduation
Everyone's families will be in the weekend of graduation, and of course families want their time with you, while friends want time with you as well. The cross over will be hectic, but it needs to be balanced and it needs to be done.
8. Get Graduation Presents
A warning to all friends: they will be sappy.
9. Take Senior Photos
Professional or not, just take a few photos, on campus, with friends, to remember these four years.
10. Walk Through Campus One Last Time
Everyone walks through campus. A lot. But I think it's important to do a round one more time, to take it all in and realize that this is it: it could all be different if/when you ever come back.
11. Have a Sleepover with Friends
You'll never be in this close proximity again, so just try to suck it up as they keep you awake with their snoring.
12. Have a Good Crying Session
Things are changing. It's okay to freak out.
13. Participate in all Senior Activities
You're a senior, and you deserve to take a break from class and work and finally celebrate that you've made it through the past four years.
14. Mentally and Physically Prepare Yourself
Practice walking across stage in those heels. Also repeat "don't cry. don't cry. don't cry," to yourself so you don't actually cry when they hand you that diploma.
15. Celebrate
You've done it! Congrats! You have survived four years, and while the future may be looming ahead, you deserve to sit back and celebrate with the people you love. This is a huge accomplishment. Don't forget that.
