With over half of my college experience completed, I found myself engaging in some serious reflection over this spring break. Time with my family has been precious but it also has me really thinking about the path for my life for the next few months and beyond. I know that I will face a lot of decisions in the coming months and that fact is terrifyingly exciting. Villanova truly has become my home and, as clique as it sounds, I couldn't imagine not being a part of the amazing community that is Nova Nation.
You don’t have to have your whole life figured out yet and that’s totally fine
That one internship you've been wanting this summer will not make or break your future. Your opportunities are endless. If you find yourself becoming overwhelmed with the possibility of a job looming over you, remember that you will find the right fit for you. A tactic that I have found to be super beneficial is creating a a pros and cons list to weigh your options. A few words on a piece of paper is all it may take to see things more clearly. Try to entertain each possibility in a positive light and use each setback as a room for growth rather than allowing yourself to get down in the dumps. It can be harder than it sounds but, trust me, you'll thank me later.
While it’s easy to focus on the future and all of the wonderful opportunities ahead after graduation, the whole college experience only happens once so live in the moment.
Don't mentally label yourself as a senior when you're still a junior- trust me I know how easy this is. Once graduation is around the corner, you will wishing to do it all over again. Four years may seem like forever when you're pulling an all nighter or studying for finals but each moment is fleeting.
Go to as many basketball games as you can in the last three semesters
There is an abundance of free student tickets through the lottery system. Need I say more? March Madness is the most wonderful time of the year I promise. When you were touring during the whole college search process, the word community was probably uttered a million times. Basketball season is truly the embodiment of the community that makes Nova Nation so special.
These three years had ups, downs, and everything in between.
Life is truly as rollercoaster despite how clique that may sound. While you may have heard more times than you can count that college will be the best four years of your life, don't get caught up in trying to be perfect. Allow yourself to mess up and make mistakes in order to really grow and discover yourself. College is the last time you will have freedom without the responsibility of the real world.
Embrace your creative side- sing, sketch, or engage in the talent that allows you to freely express yourself.
Over the last few months especially, I have found myself longing for a break from the daily routine that can become chaotic and tiring. While it is important to accomplish everything on your to do list for the day, be careful not to burn yourself out. Taking a few minutes or an hour every day to catch your breath and engage in a peaceful activity will do wonders for both your mental and physical health.
Make those Spotify playlists for every mood you're feeling.
Whether you're studying, feeling bright and happy, super stressed with a mountain of assignments to do, or walking to class on a rainy day- there's a Spotify playlist perfect for you. Music has the power to influence your mood in magical subtle ways. I find that listening to an album I'm really vibing with in the moment allows me to be more carefree and productive during the times I really need to get done.
Cook whenever you can- you’ll have a real kitchen that you’ll be expected to whip up meals in eventually.
Meal prep may seem like a daunting task but take it as an opportunity to make a spontaneous trip to the grocery store for all of your favorite ingredients and throw on some music while your cooking to pass the time. You (and your roommates) will be happy with a full fridge that's not just all zilly fries.