The end of the spring semester is finally here and final exams are scheduled just around the corner. Pushing through these last few weeks can seem nearly impossible, especially if you are an absolutely exhausted college student like myself. Exhaustion is the best way to describe the aftermath of endless study hours, thousands of typed words, mind-numbing nights of solving problems, lack of sleep, and numerous brain-rattling, immobilizing moments of near breakdown. Having persistent motivation is not always easy to maintain, especially when it feels like you are constantly working and are in desperate need of a break, or even have thoughts of giving up. When I find that these emotions are overwhelming and physical and mental exhaustion seem to be taking over, I have to remind myself to breathe, and be reassured that everything will be okay. It is important for any student to recognize that you are putting yourself through all of your tenacious and often fatiguing work for something… but I am sure that all of us could all use a reminder every once in awhile. I know that I do.

It is important to remember that once the long nights of studying, writing papers, and drowning amounts of homework are finally through, it will be time to move on and start a new chapter in your life. The anticipation of beginning a “new chapter” may be intimidating in itself, however, it will at least be a break from the persistent and (at times) monotonous routine you have been keeping up with for so long. You must remain optimistic that once it is all said and done, your time will come to start the life you have been aspiring for. That being said, it is normal to have doubt from time to time, or be worried that of all of your exerted energy in school could be “for nothing” or not end up like you planned. However, even if that does become the case, you should try to be content with the idea that your life should unfold itself as it should, no matter which direction it shall take you; the reality is that much of the future is unknown, and that is okay. Your education, opportunities, and all of the stress that is intermingled will lead you somewhere, and you must essentially maintain a positive attitude to make it through without pulling your hair out.

When exhaustion becomes too overwhelming, it easy to think “this isn’t worth it” or “I can’t do this” and want to give up--trust me, I have been there. The anxiety and strain associated with making it through college can really damper a person’s motivation, especially when you consider its extended duration. If you find yourself in this state of mind, you should remember that you are doing this in hopes to obtain a job that you hopefully love and a life that will make you most joyful in the long term. If you are not happy with what you are doing at the moment, or question the path that you plan to take, then perhaps you should reevaluate your priorities and choose to pursue something that will give you the greatest fulfillment. If you are on a path that you are content with, keep going. Take breaks when you need to, and return to your work when your mind is cleared and you are prepared to get back at it. Keep in mind that the exhaustion and pressures of college are only temporary; taking the chance to go after your ambitions and sticking with them, even when it seems hardest, may lead you to something greater.