Photo by Vasily Koloda on Unsplash
So, you’ve made it. 3.5+ years of college are behind you and you’re staring down the barrel at the final semester of school you’ll ever take- and it’s scary. You look at your capstone course and realize this is it. The next 15 weeks and then it’s freedom. Speaking from experience, it can be overwhelming. There’s so much to think about and you still have to worry about classes and a job! Here are a few things that has helped me take on this final semester without wanting to pass out.
1. Organizing
While syllabus week is great, looking at the semester in one giant chunk is not fun. Write everything down in your planner, or whatever organization method works best for you, and then see what can be done now and what is done with groups. This makes it look a lot less challenging and it feels more manageable. Start blocking out time for homework and then a different section of time for job hunting. Staying organized is key to being able to stay on top of the water and not drowning in it.
2. Look around
This is your last semester! College flew by in the blink of an eye. Note the little things on your walk to class. How the squirrels run across the South Oval, the two cyclists that nearly ran into each other in the bike lane and how the sun filters through the trees. Keep these pocketed away in your memory for later when you reminisce on your good ol’ college days.
3. Get out
If you’re anything like me, it’s easy to hole yourself in when the semester starts. Any time someone asks you to do something your first answer is “I have homework” or “I need to study.” Put the pencil and books down and go out with your friends. It’s hard, but appreciating this time with those closest to you is just as important as aiming for that 4.0.
4. Self care
Relax at least once a week with a face mask, a movie or even just lighting a candle and turning on some music. There’s no shortage of tasks to be done in the next four months so take some time for yourself so you don’t completely burn out and go crazy. Hold those friends a little closer and have a relaxing night in.
5. Enjoy your last semester!
Studies are the reason that you’re at college, but the final semester is the time to really appreciate everything college has to offer- and pat yourself on the back. You did it. You made it to this point and there’s nothing but greatness ahead of you. Kick your feet up once a week and enjoy knowing that the big haul of schooling is behind you.