For me, and a lot of you, it is the start of the last semester of our undergraduate college experiences. It is a bittersweet moment when we reflect on the past three and a half years and think about how much we changed and immediately freak out because it is all coming to an end. We are about to join the real world. Lately, I have been thinking about the last few things I need to make sure to do before graduating the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
1. Cross everything off your bucket or "bucky" list. From late night swimming in the lake to going to the farmers market every Saturday morning, do it. Crossing items off the bucket list ensures that you get the true Wisconsin experience and everything that Madison has to offer.
2. Take risks. This is the last chance to YOLO. There is no time, but now. If you not now, when? No judgement zone. This is your last opportunity, so take the risk and just do it.
3. Don't waste time. No matter how hungover you are. I know it is hard. I accuse myself from doing this, as well. Laying hungover in bed all day, watching TV, sounds great in theory but it is a waste of the entire day and can leave you feeling extremely blah. Don't let that happen. Wake up, get your butt out of bed and do fun things, especially over the weekend.
4. Stop being so stressed. School can be hard, but stressing out about it -- especially the last semester -- does not seem necessary. Make plans to keep yourself on track so that you won't be rushing and stressed at the last minute. Doing things ahead of time will pay off in the end.
5. Have fun. College is one of the most fun times in life, so take advantage of it. Make every moment fun, because it can be. Wisconsin is probably one of the most fun schools out there, so have as much fun as you can while you are here.
6. Be happy. Wasting time by being sad is the worst way to waste time. No matter what the situation is, spin it into a positive. Happiness is one of the most important qualities in life, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison has the power to make anyone happy.
As you say cheers to the last semester, even if it is just the last semester of your freshman, sophomore or junior year, keep these things in mind. You only have so much time in this amazing place. When you are gone you will miss it. Spend your last semester loving every minute and you definitely won't have any regrets.
