Now that the weather has steadied a bit, my attention has turned to graduation. It’s coming up for a lot of us - triggering feelings of excitement and intimidation. Either way, it’s going to get here fast. It’s so close; I can feel the energies of celebration and accomplishment starting to build up.

All you seniors may also be suffering from the unfortunate senioritis - that lack of motivation to get out of bed in the morning, waking up and thinking, do I really need to go to this class? Hopefully, the answer is yes. Senioritis makes it feel like a marathon to the end, but pushing through and getting everything done can make it a sprint. When the final day creeps up on you, some would say it comes at you like a wrecking ball. Thinking about it makes my heart quicken, my breathing shorten, and my mind race.

Then, the list of tasks you still have to accomplish comes to mind - graduation cap and gown, invitations, speeches, and that menacing walk across the stage... don’t forget those last minute projects and papers! However, there’s a bittersweet week at the very end: FINALS. If you’re struggling to get through the semester right now, just think about the weight floating off your shoulders after your last. final. EVER - takes a deep breath and sigh of relief. It’s coming - the stressful days and nights of schooling will end. You will get that piece of paper which costs way too much. But somehow, it means SO much.

You put in lots of time and work. You’re almost there!

One of the topics you may be worrying about is finding a job. More than likely, you’ve heard, “Oh there’s no jobs out there.” Don’t believe them and don’t get discouraged. In this day and age, you can download an app and scroll through countless jobs near you. The job search engine, Indeed, has helped me calm my nerves on more than one occasion. Word of mouth and personal networking can also work in your favor. You may have to get creative with the steps you take to reach your goal, but that’s one of the charming aspects of life.

You may be worried about specific circumstances when it comes to graduating,

“The greatest mistake you can make in life is to be continually fearing you will make one.”

– Elbert Hubbard

It’s important to focus on the points you can control - from getting your assignments in on time to keeping up with emails, or speaking to an advisor.

This is a time to celebrate and take in your accomplishments. Be proud. Get motivated for this last stretch and make every moment count.