Today, I began my first day of classes as a senior at the College of Charleston. It is hard to believe that four years at one of the best colleges in America is quickly coming to a close.

Yes, this year will be filled with many lasts, like the last first day or the last day of class, but despite the lasts that senior year comes with, it is important to step back and enjoy it. I am not saying do not work hard or study hard, because that is so important, but I am saying that every now and then stop to smell the roses and enjoy your life.

Instead of dreading that 8 AM, wake up five minutes early and enjoy a cup of coffee. Instead of dreading waking up at 5 AM for the field, stop and think how blessed you are to have the ability to go into schools and teach children.

Instead of rushing across campus to get to class, stop and take in the scenery around you.

Just stop and take it all in. Often times, I get so caught up in making it to class or completing assignments for all my classes, that I forget to love life and love where I am in life.

I forget about all the friendships that the College of Charleston has given me and I forget to thank my mom and dad for always encouraging me to study hard.

Life can seem as if it is moving a thousand miles an hour, and it may seem impossible to pump the brakes at times. But, as my time in college comes to a close, I realize that I need to make it a priority to start enjoying my life and enjoying my last little bit of college life before the real world hits.

Whatever you need to do to enjoy a day, do it. Drink a cup of coffee, sit outside and write your paper, or grab some ice cream with a friend. It takes effort, but it will be oh so worth it to enjoy the lasts instead of letting life pass you by.