The last four years have gone by incredibly quickly. I never thought they would move so fast and that I would already be standing where I am. I remember being a freshman and my senior friend telling me to enjoy it because it goes by faster than expected. She sure was right. With my undergraduate journey ending, I have advice for those who will be in my place soon.
Appreciate Where You’re At
My first piece of advice would be to really appreciate it. When you’re in college, it is the best time of your life because you are free and able to do so many fun things. Life isn’t so serious, and that’s why it’s the best time to have fun, make friends, and create some of the best memories you will carry for the rest of your life. When you’re annoyed during finals week, writing that paper in the library till two a.m., stop and think about the fact that one day you’ll be reminiscing about those late nights with your friends—getting food and deliriously laughing in the library. Those moments will seem so fun and carefree in the future.
Do Not Stress Too Much About the Future
You have so much time to figure out what you want to do and where you want to go. When I was a freshman, I thought I had everything figured out, but I did not. I ended up changing my major, studying abroad, and completely changing my whole course of life. Everything that I had cared about changed, and I was really able to stop and recognize what I wanted to do. I am still figuring that out now.
Cherish Your Friendships
The friendships you make in your early 20s are important because you will go through many changes together. These friendships will give you memories for the rest of your life. And besides, once you’re older, it’s a bit harder to make friends. Now is the time to cherish your friends and hold them close and enjoy the fun times you have together. Be young, carefree, and just soak up life in your early 20s.
Appreciate Your Body
We all know that in college with dining halls, food, and lots of nights out, it’s easy to get rundown and for our bodies to go through changes. However, during these times, your body is doing so much for you! One day, you’re going to look back and think about how incredible you looked, so be sure to cherish your body now. Appreciate it for all it has done for you and be confident in who you are.
College is such a special time, and these years are some to truly be remembered and appreciated for the rest of your life. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Appreciate yourself for where you are now.