Senior year comes hand-in-hand with uncertainty. It’s a time that comes and goes in what feels like a blink of an eye. It’s filled with the excitement of graduation and the bittersweet feeling of leaving. But before walking down to retrieve that diploma, there are a few things you should remember before graduating.
1. Savor friendships and say better goodbyes.
Through these past few years in college, you’ve met some amazing people. You may even think of them as “lifelong friends.” But sometimes even the strongest bonds loosen. Make sure to savor the friendships that you have built over the years. Enjoy your time with one another. And when it’s time to say goodbye, make sure it's heartfelt.
2. Give advice.
Throughout these past few years in college, you’ve probably learned a few things. Make sure to lend your younger friends a hand. Give advice, tell them things that you wish you would have known during your journey.
3. Don’t stop learning.
As you’re reaching your last few weeks in school, you’re probably ready to get out and take on “the read world.” But while you’re still there, take in as much as you can. Make every lesson count. You might learn something in the last week that could make a huge difference in your future.
4. Stay in the present.
It’s so easy to get caught up in the daydreams of what your future might look like. But don’t forget that you’re going through a very special time right now. Soak up that time that you have left and don’t let the stress of the future ruin it.
5. Do that one thing you’ve always wanted to do.
Do that one thing that you’ve always wanted to do. Whatever came into your mind when you read that, do it.
6. Follow your instincts.
Many people will give you advice going out of college. Your parents, teachers, friends, strangers, etc. But in the end, it’s you who is going to be making all of the decisions. So trust yourself, and do what feels right.
7. You might miss college.
It’s OK to be sad about leaving. You might have had some of the most memorable years yet. You might even end up missing your school. It’s OK, we’ll miss you too!
8. Everything works itself out.
Whether you have a job lined up after graduation or not, it’s OK to be scared of what the future holds. But just remember that everything has a tendency of working itself out. Don’t try to plan the rest of your life your senior year, that’s impractical.
9. … But you still need to put forth the effort.
At the same time, don’t let go completely. Don’t procrastinate on doing things just because it’s your senior year. If you want something to happen in your future you are going to have to put in the work to get it.
10. Celebrate your accomplishments.
Reflect on how far you’ve come. You’ve accomplished a lot of things while in college, celebrate it. This might be the only chance you get, so enjoy yourself!
11. Graduation doesn’t have to mean goodbye.
If you know you’re really going to miss your university, don’t be sad. Graduating does not mean that you are forced to leave the community. Stay in touch with your favorite professors, friends, etc. Visit them if you’d like; alumni are always welcomed back!
Truth is, graduation is different for everyone. Just remember to finish off the year exactly how you want. This is your time, and nothing can take that away from you. Have fun, be brave, and make it a time to remember. And remember you have even more amazing experiences awaiting
