If you opened this then you're probably in your victory lap or you know you're going to have to do a victory lap. Well, let me tell you, IT'S NO BIG DEAL. For six years I have been told that college is the best four years of your life. Yes, I said six. I went to a community college then came to Bowling Green and none of my important credits transferred. I had to basically start all over hence my extra year here. But who knew that coming to Bowling Green would actually be the best five years of my life. This victory lap is all about me - getting those good grades, spending time with friends and working my butt off to graduate.

Now, most students these days end up taking an extra year and it is not frowned upon anymore. Some students end up taking the victory lap due to studying abroad, having to do three co-ops before graduating, student teaching, or working full time. Not to mention, more and more programs are becoming "five year programs" instead of a four year program. But hey, if you can get finished in four years by taking summer classes or braving those 18 credit hours, then you do you Glen Coco.

I know that taking a victory lap can be embarrassing, but taking an extra year shouldn't be embarrassing, it should be your time to get it done. To get all the work done you need to finish college, to graduate, and to get the heck out of dodge. Guys, remember that college is hard and it's different for everyone. Some people are naturally smart and some just need a little bit more help. There is nothing wrong with taking school slow and getting more help, as long as it means you're getting closer to your goal - GRADUATION.

Just remember, you're the real MVP. This will get you through your victory lap. I know you have been through a lot, you've done a lot, and maybe you've been busy with organizations on top of a social life, work and school. You deserve to graduate. All your long nights working on homework, full time jobs, studying in a different country, student teaching those precious kids that you didn't want to leave, or anything else you have been though, remember that you did all of that!!! Use this time to slow down, take fewer credit hours, enjoy college while you can. Use this year to get those good grades you have been working for, finish up all your classes, take a break, party hardy, and spend time with the friends that you never want to leave.

And you do you. Remember that.