An Open Letter To College Seniors

So you are starting your senior year.

You are either relieved to get out of what feels like a four-year prison, apprehensive because soon you will be “adulting” or excited for a new adventure - plus a variety of other thoughts and feelings.

For me, senior year was a combination of being filled with joy for familiar faces, fear for the future, and determination to engage with my final year of college and step into the next portion of my life.

So now it is your turn. Below are three things that I want you to remember as you enter your senior year of college.

Give Your Body and Mind Rest

So, this is the part in the article where I didn’t follow my own advice. Every event, every activity or friend gathering I went to. With the rest of my time I was at work, doing homework and projects, and fulfilling campus roles I held.

I didn’t sleep for two semesters. Yes, I made some great memories, but, I suffered greatly from sleep deprivation and lack of self-care. As a consequence, when I graduated my problems, insecurities, and fears that I had been pushing away surfaced. Post-graduation I am still sifting through them. There is great value in rest and reflection. With this, you will have the space to process and enjoy your current season in life, as you prepare for the next.

Pursue People

Above your academics, your success, and your wants – pursue people. Spend time with the individuals whom you have shared the heartaches, the stresses and joys of college. While you are spending time with them, make space for those younger than you as well. Spend time with one or two underclassman, at dinner, for a cup of coffee or campus event. Ask them questions, challenge them, but most importantly be vulnerable with them. As an underclassman did you have it all figured out? Not at all. The sweetest times during my senior year was sitting with a younger girlfriend of mine in her dorm room, crying and laughing together. Sharing the hard times, and your weaknesses people is a beautiful way to impact them. Leave college with relationships, not just a degree.

College Is Not Forever

Let me repeat that, college is not meant to be forever. College is an awesome time to grow in many areas before you actually have to become an adult. The community is instant, you understand the expectations for class and involvement on campus, there is food available (that is important) and more. Your life is mostly predictable and taken care of. However, when you receive your diploma, that all changes. After college you have the freedom to make choices for how your life will look. College is not meant to be forever. And that is OK.

Enjoy your senior year. I wish you the best as you learn and grow during this time!