My last semester of college is upon me, and it’s bringing on a rush of emotions about the future. While I have a solid plan and know what I want to do, there are so many fears that surround my next steps. Leaving college is such a bittersweet time because while I know I am ready to take on the world, I know a part of me is going to miss the comfort of all of the wonderful relationships I have built. It’s scary to not know what’s coming next, but here are 8 things I hope to achieve in my final months of college.
1. Start planning.
Now is the time to start planning and figure out what direction I need to take next. I have been doing quite a bit of research into my future path these past couple of weeks, and it is a bit overwhelming. I can’t imagine waiting until after I leave college to plan, so I am conquering the challenge now. If you’re a second-semester senior, don’t let senioritis get the best of you – start building your future now.
2. Embrace who I am.
I have spent most of my college career feeling embarrassed of myself. But at this point in my life, I have come to realize that I should just embrace who I am. I am learning to accept that not everyone is going to like me or my actions, but that doesn’t make me any less worthy.. I am encouraging myself to redefine who I am and choose to live my happiest, most successful life.. If you’re nearing the end of college, remember that it doesn’t matter if others aren’t on board with your interests or personality. You are who you are; don’t apologize for it!
3. Go on a date.
The last date I went on just for fun didn’t end well, but it’s time to move on and jump back into the dating pool. It’s time to just have fun and relax. I’m running out of time to do that. On my next date, I need to relax, have fun, live in the moment and make some memories. Don’t be afraid to look for love in your last few months of college. Even if your date doesn’t lead to anything, appreciate the experience and the “me time.”
4. Enjoy my lazy afternoons.
This may sound lame, but as college comes to a close, I’m realizing that I really need to enjoy those days where I have nothing to do, nowhere to be, and no one to depend on me. Right now, I have complete free time to do whatever my heart desires, even if it means putting off that homework. In your last semester, choose to have a little fun. It doesn’t matter if you binge-watch “Friends” or “The Office” for the 1,384 time. Your life, your decision.
5. Make time for myself.
I have spent the last three years working extremely hard to succeed. I often put self-care on the back burner because I didn’t feel like I had the time to balance everything college brings. But in this last semester, I want to focus more on my needs so that I don’t feel as much burnout.g This last semester, balance doing well in school and spending time doing what you love.
6. Make memories with friends.
I have a tendency to close myself off and not leave my room. I basically become a hermit, and up until now, I have been OK with my decision to stay in. But I have some amazing friends that I want to spend time and make memories with because that’s what I will carry into the future. These last few months of college, make your friends a priority – you won’t have as much time with them once you turn that tassel.
7. Take more risks.
In the past, have always played it safe. Now, though, is the time for me to put myself out there, explore the unknown, and have some adventures. I have learned that you never know what amazing things can happen when you take risks and challenge yourself. Staying in your comfort zone may sound like a good idea, but this semester, challenge yourself to grow.
8. Make the most of everything.
There are some aspects of college I’m just not going to miss: the bad dining hall food, the crummy assignments, and the late nights I spend writing papers. Still, I want to treasure every moment I spend doing these mundane things because they’re an unforgettable part of my college experience. As your time in college winds down, make the most out of every day you spend at work, every meal with friends, and even every stressful final.
My college journey may be coming to a close, but it’s not over yet. I am excited to make the most of the time I have left and spend it with the people I love. Leaving college is going to be a bittersweet experience, but I am excited to see where life will take me next. If you’re in your last semester of college, celebrate the fun and keep growing, but know that this is just the beginning of your journey.
Featured Photo via Weheartit.
