As many of you know, I'm graduating in May. I already have plans in place for after graduation and have an idea of what my future might look like. It's really tempting to wish away the months between now and May and to get fed up with the academic lifestyle, but don't let yourself fall in to that trap, fellow seniors. Even if you're not a senior, I beg you to cherish your time in college.
Have Your Voice Heard: Become an Odyssey Creator
Soak up the time in the residence halls, even the times when the shower has weak water pressure or the neighboring room is really loud. This may be one of the only times in your life you get to live with people your own age who are immediately accessible. Treasure your meals in the dining hall, your conversations full of laughter and debates about aliens and theology. Look around during class, and marvel at all the young brains in here, brains that have potential to change your collective future. You won't always be around this many people who are after the same thing as you: learning.
Work hard your last semester, even if you already have grad school or a job in the bag. Finish well, so that you can begin the next step well. Don't forget to make time for your friends, because you're not always going to be a door away. Take pictures and hold on to them, so you can show your children the kind of person you were in college.
If your next step is marriage, congratulations! But don't leave behind the people who are not getting married. Savor your time as a single woman or man (a very wise woman told me once that you are single until you walk down the aisle and promise yourself to another) and hang out with your friends. You'll have the rest of your life with your spouse. Believe me, your friendships will change once you are married. I'm not married of course, but when I talk and hang out with my married friends, there is a different dynamic. Another person has been added into the mix, even if they are not present.
If your next step is not marriage and you're disappointed in not obtaining that ring by spring, that's okay. I'm a little sad I didn't meet my husband in college (I still have four months left–fingers crossed!) but that means God has other plans. He wanted me to be single in college so that I could fully appreciate academics and friendships, and be 100% devoted to both. Your time will come, Lord willing.
Finally, take the time to appreciate your professors and especially your advisor. I know full well I would not be even writing this if my advisor had not been as excellent as he was. He took the time to help me plan my schedule but also checked up on me emotionally, and truly cared. When you go to a small college, it is nearly impossible for professors to not care. They see you and want you to learn. Appreciate this and savor the knowledge that there are people who are invested in you. It is a rare time! Before you graduate, write a note to every professor you've had and let them know how they've impacted you.
Let's make the next four months an amazing experience, fellow seniors. Let's walk across that stage, cap-and-gown-clad, without any regrets.
