Dear Endicott Seniors,

I promise it is going to be OK. I know that probably is not reassuring in any way. But, it will be. I know part of you is saying, “YAY! I’m going to be done with school and going to be a real adult!” And the other part of you is saying, “Oh my god. I’m going to be done with school and I have to be a real adult. No!”

That is perfectly normal. Whether you feel strongly one way or the other is also fine, too.

Some of you may know what you want to do – whether it is going to graduate school, getting a job, moving out of your parents house, etc. Others will have absolutely no idea. During my senior year, I just wanted to be able to eat three meals a day and have a nice bed to sleep in after I graduated. That was my only plan my entire senior year. I had no other direction in my life. And that was OK. If you have a plan similar to that, that is fine too.

Some of you cannot wait for the year to be over. Others count the “last” of everything. Your last first week of class, your last first quiz, your last Halloween, etc. Whether you are excited for the end of your senior year or dreading it, let me give you all some advice.

Do not count the days left until graduation. Do not think about how this is your last year at Endicott. Live for today. Live in the moment and enjoy the time you have left. Thinking about the end only spoils the present.

Do things you have not done before. Try new things, explore new areas, take a class that looks interesting if you can, go to sporting events and support your fellow Gulls. Get involved on campus – join clubs, go to events put on by the college and clubs. Endicott has so many wonderful opportunities for students no matter your interests, don’t squander this chance you have to truly enjoy yourself and discover new people, things, and passions.

My senior year, I began going back to REACH meetings, which I am so thankful I did. You will meet new people you have not met in your four years and they can all turn out to be great new friends. I pushed myself to be more involved on campus and to try to make a difference. And I am so glad that I did because I have never been happier and more proud of myself.

Make your mark on this school. Dare to challenge yourself. Don’t let things happen to you, make things happen for yourself. Strive to reach new heights. Dream big.

You will find your way in this world. It may take you time or you may find a path sooner than most. But, you will find your way, I promise.