It's officially 2017, signaling the beginning of the second semester for both high school and college seniors. It's crunch time; it is the time when the finish line known as graduation is finally in sight- around four months away and counting. It's time to shine, get those GPAs looking pretty and make sure all those loose ends are tied. This is the year of bittersweet endings and of curious beginnings. Bittersweet, because one important chapter of your life is closing, coming to an end, leaving behind memories of the past four years. Curious, perhaps, because you aren't sure of what to do next or how everything will go wherever you end up. But none-the-less, no matter what emotions are bouncing around- be proud and finish strong.

I, for one, am so excited that 2017 is finally here. Let's face it, 2016 needed to be gone. In all seriousness though, this year is certainly anticipated to be the most relieving, yet stressful and exciting year for me. Relieving? Because by May, I'll have my shiny BS in biology in my hands and by December, I'll be completely finished with my undergraduate studies as my second degree in communications will also be in my name. Stressful? Because, while completing these studies, I'll also be applying to seven veterinary schools and hoping that by the end of the year I get selected for at least one interview, meaning that at least one school wants me. Honestly, I've been through some hella stressful times, but I have a feeling this will be all of those combined times a million...because, let's face it, when it's your future career path on the line, everything leading up to that acceptance will put you on edge. Exciting? Simply because so much is going to be happening; graduations are looming in the near distance and I'll be one step closer to achieving my lifelong goal. If that isn't exciting, then I don't know what is. Like I said, 2017 is definitely the year of endings and beginnings. For me, I'll be ending my undergraduate studies and beginning my graduate school journey.

So for those graduating in four short months, end that chapter of your life strong and strive for a beautiful new beginning. Stay positive and stay motivated; this is what we all have been waiting for. Don't slack off and certainly don't give up as the end comes nearer and nearer. Finish strong and an early congratulations to you!