As my senior year is coming to a close and graduation is looming closer, I have been reflecting on my last four years. My very last semester has been emotional and scary. I don’t feel ready to enter the adult world, but I know that when the time comes I will be. While I sometimes wish I could go back to freshman year to delay graduation, I can’t. What I can do is pass on the lessons I’ve learned to those early in their college careers.
Get out of your comfort zone.
It took me a little while to learn this, but I realized that in order to get involved and step into any type of leadership position, it is necessary to be a little uncomfortable for a while. You will feel out of place, but if you’re where you’re supposed to be it will feel right.
Not everyone will remain your friend.
You meet a lot of people in college, and just because you live ten steps from someone your freshman year does not mean that they will always be there. It’s okay to let go of some friendships.
Be able to let loose.
Classes are stressful and you cannot constantly worry and stress without it affecting you mentally. Dance in your room, sing in your car, have some fun at the bars. Work will always be there, but these fun moments in college will end at some point. Find your stress relief.
Don’t stay hung up on the bad moments.
Whether these moments are completely embarrassing, maybe shameful, or you just regret them, move on. If you constantly reflect on them you will drive yourself crazy.
Welcome new experiences.
Try new things. Don’t get stuck in old habits or not do something because it scares you. Travel if you have the chance, and take any new opportunity that comes your way. Jump on any chance you get.
You will change, and that’s okay.
Looking back on myself freshman year, I can see how much I’ve changed. Your political and social views may change, your world view may change. If you have not yet accepted everyone, I hope you will learn to accept anyone who is different. You will meet so many different people. Change is one of the biggest things that happens in college, and it is unavoidable.
Appreciate what you have.
Ultimately, appreciate your education. Not many people get a higher education. Tell your family you love them, and make sure your friends know how much you appreciate them.
Good luck to all other graduates!