I was told my whole life that my college years would be the best years of my life. Honestly, I have had a fantastic time in college, and I have had so many wonderful opportunities and learning experiences. I am incredibly grateful for the time I've had, but I can honestly say that, although I will always remember these last few years fondly, I do not think I’m going to miss them once I graduate in May.

Recently I had a meeting with my academic advisor to choose what classes I will be taking for my final semester for my undergrad degree. At first, I was slightly shocked to realize that my time on campus is coming to an end. I realized that I only have a few months left of rooming with my best friend, and a few months left of complaining about perfectly fine, readily-accessible cafeteria food. I realized that soon I will not see all my friends every single day, and instead of paying a lump sum at the beginning of the semester for housing, I’m going to have to be responsible for paying my own rent every month, and I’m going to have to research the best health insurance plans.

As scary as the adult world seems as it looms on the horizon, I am sprinting toward it with anticipation. I have been told to cherish these years because they are the most carefree and I will never get them back. I do cherish the memories I have, but I have to believe that there is so much more ahead of me. I cannot wait to get into a career where I can start making a meaningful impact on the world. I know that there are going to be struggles and I will be overwhelmed and tired and probably broke more often than not, but my values aren’t based in personal comfort and entertainment anymore. I want to help people, and I have a plan to do it. I volunteer and do as much as I can now, but it feels like I’m just stuck on pause for right now. I know these experiences are vital and worthwhile, but I know what direction I need to take after graduation, and I can’t wait to start heading that way. I loved college, and I learned so much about who I am and what my values are, as well as all the practical and theoretical knowledge I need to step into the professional world and, eventually, grad school. However, I am ready to leave it behind. College is a great time, but I really hope it is not the best time of my life. I would like to believe that I have a lot to offer, and the most fulfilling experiences I can imagine involve using what talents I have and those I have been given by my university to create something meaningful and beneficial to help our hurting and broken world heal.