The first week of school came and went. Honestly the week before school started and the first week of school were LIT for me. Between going out with my roommates and collecting empty bottles of wine, the semester is definitely off to a great start. I’m sure people are thinking school LITERALLY just started so how could I possibly have realized anything? Well I’m three semesters away from the real world and possibly grad school, and this first week gave me a lot of perspective.

1. The "real world" is quickly approaching

A year seems like a long time, but when I realized that summer 2018 is only a few months away I definitely got pretty overwhelmed. I realized this week that as overwhelmed as I may be, I have to remember that there are plenty of tools around me that can help me plan out my future. Its so easy to freak out about it, but honestly take a deep breath. The end is near, but there is still so much time to get everything in order and have a loose plan of the future.

2. Take Care of Yourself!

As a 21-year-old college student, I’ve had my fair shares of all-nighters and long nights out. The most important thing I realized this week was to take care of myself as much as possible. Being out late, drinking, and working over-night will definitely DRAIN me. I realized in this first week that I really have to have a solid diet and adjust my sleep schedule so that I can stay healthy. Taking care of your mental health is also VERY important and not eating well and lack of sleep can also affect mental health. So make sure that you're taking care of your mind AND body.

3. LIVE IT UP!!!!

Its senior year yall!!!!! LIVE IT UP!!!! We are never going to be this young again. It’snot going to be socially acceptable to start drinking at 9 am on game days after we graduate. Cherish each experience and TAKE LOTS OF PICTURES! Of course, don’t let taking pictures consume the moment, but capture candid pictures save the memories. It’s almost bittersweet to be done with “the best four years of your life”. Savor each moment, get involved, go out, go to all the games, jump in the fountain at midnight, and most importantly take a second to look around and notice that you’ve made it so far. Be proud of your self.

4. Just Cause It's Senior Year... DON'T SLACK OFF!

I know we are only a week into the semester but, I’ve already skipped class…. Remind yourself to not just let go just because it’s senior year. Grades and GPA are still SUPER important and you don’t want to mess up everything you’ve worked for thus far. Especially when the end is just around the corner.

Although this list may seem short, I’m sure everyone will be able to take something away from it. Most importantly just remember the semester just started, fall semester is always the best semester, and to all us seniors out there….THE END IS NEAR!!! Enjoy every last moment of college, surround yourself with your close friends, and just have a great last year.