College is probably the best time we’ve all had, so far. Friends, parties and various things make us enjoy our years here… until our senior year comes.
A senior year is the final year of high school or college, but I describe it better as the year when fears grow, when decisions have to be made, and the year of nostalgia. In my case, this should have been my last semester in college, but because of some misunderstandings and other things, I ended up having to add an extra semester. So, I could say that I am going to have three senior semesters, so I know something about these issues.
Probably the biggest problem that one faces at this stage is wanting everything to be solved as quickly as possible. The question “and then what?” goes around in our heads constantly and that is totally normal. We have spent four years in which we were always sure of what we had to do. We knew that in our first year we had to take certain credits, in our second year the same, and so on throughout our college years. That’s why we have to normalize all the feelings we feel, because it’s probably the first time in a long time that we don’t have an organized plan. Working, continuing studying or simply taking a break are the main options, but even if you know which one to choose, it ends up creating a lot of doubts.
Normally in these years the responsibilities get more demanding and it is very difficult to find a balance between classes, work, sports and social life in a way that we can enjoy it all. And I know perfectly well that I am not the only one. Like me, there are students who are also doing their internships, working to earn a small income, some are on sports teams and they can’t let go of their classes. The university sells us the idea that we can do anything, but the truth is that, at some point, we all sacrifice something: hours of sleep, time with friends or even class performance. That’s when we ask ourselves if it’s really worth it or if we should enjoy what we do more. The answer? I have no idea. I think everyone gives the importance they think each aspect deserves and knows that in the long run, it may be better to make an effort in these moments.
Whatever it is, closing a stage will always be difficult, and even more so when we may be leaving behind habits, experiences and most importantly, people we love. For all these reasons and many more, being a senior is complicated, but despite the uncertainty and everything you may think about your future, always keep in mind that the closing of one stage is always the beginning of another one. So, when someone who is close to graduating tells you they feel overwhelmed or anxious, please believe them. They are probably not lying. And also always keep in touch with your advisers, so you don’t have three senior semesters like me.
