Once again, the season of papers, presentations, and hundred-question exams is upon us.

Whether it’s your first or last time taking on the dreadful beast that is finals week, you probably already know what lies ahead. A few more days of pushing through is the only thing keeping you between summer and all its glory. Leisurely naps, time with family, and stress-free days are right around the corner, and that might be the only source of joy in your heart right now.

It’s so easy to get discouraged during this time of the year. We all lose our momentum and motivation at some point. Finals week is one of the hardest things we will have to tackle academically. Once we get through it, though, it is something we can be proud of.

As you sit and ponder on organic synthesis, the processes of the respiratory system, or the next paragraph for your 10-page paper on brain and behavior — remember this. You started down this path for a reason.

Think back to before you came to college. What sparked that hunger in you for the career you chose?

Was it seeing that “aha!” moment resonate with a child from something you taught him? Was it that thrilling feeling you received when you were covered in wood shavings, insulation, and paint after your favorite volunteering experience? Was it the adrenaline you felt when you finally did something you didn’t think to be possible for yourself?

Think back to the first time you said, “This is what I want to do with my life” and hold that close to you. Your motivation to press on should ultimately stem from your passion for your profession.

From the wise words of a man who saved my way of living, “Live like no one else, so later you can live like no one else”.

This last week of work will be gone before you know it, so continue to press on towards what you love and dream about. Even if it means getting that double shot coffee, staying at Willy T. until you’re the only person left in the rotunda or reading and rereading that study guide until your eyes glaze over…keep going.

Be able to look back on that young college student and be so proud of him or her. You are able to utilize this time to create opportunities for yourself and your future. Open doors for your life, because watching them close will only bring regret.

I will leave you with a quote that was passed on to me from one of my greatest encouragers in life. I hope it will motivate you to press on during this trying time, just as it did for me during my first finals week.

“I wake up every morning and I reflect upon the promise I made to myself. No matter what the obstacle, I am determined to always push myself to the limit, even if it means turning my nights into days.”

Good luck, University of Kentucky students, and always remember why you’re here.