The last semester of college is a really crazy time. On one hand, the nostalgia is real and you find yourself appreciating aspects of college you had taken for granted before, like the free gym membership, that one spot on campus where you always hang out and, of course, all the friendships that were created and cultivated during this time. On the other hand, after four (or more) long years, you are so ready to get out of there. Between having to struggle to find motivation for the last three papers you need to write and being constantly asked what you are doing once you graduate, by the time graduation finally rolls around, you will probably be ready to get it over with. There is only one thing that could describe all the mixed feelings that accompany graduating college: “The Office”.
Nostalgia
It’s been four years! The good times and the bad have all lead you to this moment, shaping you and helping you grow. College is where you make lifetime friends and have life changing experiences. And the time really flies by. One moment you’re a little freshman with no clue and the next you’re a weathered senior with no clue. It is totally natural to feel nostalgic about that time.
Excitement
You have worked your ass off for this moment. All those late nights in the library, all the triple espressos have paid off. Celebrate!
Exhaustion
As previously stated, you have worked your ass off for this moment. You have written hundreds of pages of papers. You have put up with too many group projects. You have put in the work. And now, hopefully, you get to sleep. A least for a little while. Until you start a job or internship. So, sleep while you can.
Realizing you have to get your life together
“What are you doing after you graduate?” Sure, you’ve thought about career options. Maybe you have a dream city you expect to move to. Maybe you even have some internship experience. But unfortunately, many graduates will not have a career job the second they get out of college. So when everyone starts questioning your post-graduation plans, the reality sets in. You have to get a job. You have to survive the real world. Get it together.
Enjoy this crazy time. Just like all of college, this time will fly by. So, find motivation and push through the last few weeks of projects and papers and finals. Spend time with friends. And remember that, while this is an ending, it is also an exciting new beginning. Go forth and conquer.