Seeing as this past weekend was my graduation, I felt it was only appropriate to write about the emotional rollercoaster many students go through during their senior year! It is a crazy but exciting year—if only it lasted just a little bit longer!
1. Excitement.
The idea of living up your last year of college with all your friends never seemed better. You've made countless plans with your buddies and you're ready to go through your 50-item bucket list.
2. Shock.
Never have you been hit with such a harsh reality check. It may be your final year but it still counts. Along with all your usual classes, you get to apply to jobs and grad school too! Good luck getting all those recommendation letters!
3. Panic.
The idea of becoming an actual adult will settle in quite nicely... as in you will feel yourself panicking every few days about not being even remotely prepared to leave the dining hall, and all your friends, behind.
4. Denial.
What are you talking about? I'm not graduating. I'm staying in college forever. Go away.
5. Apathy.
Eh. It's just another year. Let's do this thing.
6. Senioritis.
Admittedly, this is basically apathy... except this is a special kind because it has the word senior in it. Goodbye, GPA! It's been nice knowing you, I'll be in my room drinking cider and watching Netflix.
7. Regret.
So maybe going to Sunset instead of studying for your exam wasn't the best idea... but at least you had fun and amazing nachos, right?!
8. Frustration.
The moment you try to get your shit together, nothing seems to work out in your favor. There are too many assignments, there's been no word from the countless jobs and schools you've applied for, your parents keep asking what you plan to do after you graduate, AND THAT BUCKET LIST ISN'T EVEN CLOSE TO COMPLETED!
9. Determination.
But after you have had some time to recollect yourself (and take a couple of shots), you start to get things done.
10. Relief!
After years of taking exams and writing papers, you are finally done and ready to actually celebrate being a senior! NO MORE SCHOOL (unless you plan on going to grad school and beyond...best of luck to you!)
11. Nostalgia.
Now that everything is done, you start to think of all the amazing times you've had while in school. It's crazy to look back and see just how much happened within those four years.
12. Pride.
Although pride is listed under the seven deadly sins, go ahead and be proud of yourself! You've worked hard and deserve to feel good about your accomplishment! You've even crossed off most of the items from your bucket list!
13. Bittersweet.
No matter how much you try to ignore it, the fact remains that the end of senior year means being separated from both your best friends and from the place that has become your home. It isn't easy and many tears will be shed—but don't worry. The bonds you have made won't be easily broken... and think of it this way, now you have even more reasons to travel!
Congratulations, seniors! Now get ready to start the next chapter of your lives. I'm sure it'll be just as amazing!
