The new year is right around the corner, and if you're a second semester senior you're feeling bittersweet about your final semester of college. Some of you may be eagerly anticipating the new adventures the new year will bring while others may be afraid to move on and see what else is in store for them.
The reality for the Class of 2016 is that we are graduating soon. So let’s make the most of our time left and do everything we want to do before we graduate. Here are some New Year’s Resolutions every second-semester college senior should make in 2016:
1. Make time for your friends.
Admit it,
2. Do something fun at least one night of the weekend.
Yes, you'll be busy applying to jobs and working on senior projects, but you're going to need a break at some point. Get dressed up and go out to a party or bar to dance with your friends. Have a movie night, even by yourself if need be. Just make sure you take
3. Study!
Senioritis probably struck early, but don't give up now because you've worked so hard for the last three and a half years and academics are the main reason you're in college. Ace your final semester of classes to make the sound of "I did it!" that much sweeter come May.
4. Schedule time to apply for jobs or make grad school plans.
Don't wait until you receive that diploma to start making your
5. Record your memories with photos and videos, but still be present in the moment.
Take pictures at every event/party/bar/trip/etc. that you go to, but do not -- and I repeat, do not – be glued to your phone all night! You'll want the physical photos to look back on (yes, even
6. Go to school-sponsored events, retreats or games.
When in your life will you have the opportunities college provides you ever again? You know that lacrosse game you've always wanted to go to? Go. Never been on a retreat? Go. That comedian the programming board
7. Explore your college's town or area.
I'm sure you've heard about restaurants, hangouts and coffee shops near your school that you've been meaning to go to. Well, actually follow through and visit that spot. You'll wish you got there sooner, but you know what they say: better late than never!
8. Be honest with your feelings and take risks.
You still have time to break out of your comfort zone. So if there's a person you've been crushing on, tell them, or if you friends invite you to the famous cliff jumping spot
9. Decorate your graduation cap (or don't) for that pre-graduation photoshoot.
Whether you'll decorate your cap or not is up to you, but don't wait until the last minute if you decide to decorate it. However, keep in mind that a lot of friend groups do pre-graduation
10. Forgive, forgive, forgive.
If somebody wronged you, try to forgive them. If you have words left unsaid, try talking to that person, or if you did something wrong, try to forgive yourself. Forgiveness can be tough, but don't waste your last semester holding a grudge or being angry and upset. Humans make mistakes, including you, so accept that and then live it up with your friends one last time.
11. And with all of this being said... don't wish it away.
The semester is not going to be easy. It will bring with it hardships as any semester does; however, don't let the pain you may feel in the moment make you wish time away. Think about all the good memories and let them motivate you through that hell week. One day there won't be any weeks in college left, and that's when you'll want it all back.
Take these resolutions and make some of your own if you wish. Our time left here is limited, Class of 2016, so let's make our final ride the most thrilling and memorable one yet.
