Whenever one door closes, another opens. For some of us, a door is closing on our college career in a matter of days.
Many University of Idaho students will attend spring commencement on May 11. Some to walk across the stage and receive a diploma — others to support friends, peers, brothers, sisters or mentors. Although it’s an overused message, it’s an important one for graduating seniors to keep in mind because it’s true.
The thought of graduating college and moving on often brings about feelings of fear and anxiety. You might panic at the thought of leaving your life or close friends behind. But you’re not alone. These feelings are normal, but that doesn’t mean we should let them ruin our last moments in Moscow.
Contrary to popular belief, graduating college does not mean our lives are over. Sure it is an ending, but it’s a beginning, too. There are plenty of new faces and places to come in our futures.
Some of us have a plan for next year, which is great, while others don’t even know what will happen this summer. And that’s OK too. Try not to compare yourself to others. It will only put a damper on your time left here.
Instead of dwelling on what we don’t have, let’s focus on what we do have: a college degree, which is no easy feat. We’ve worked hard to reach this point, pulled several all-nighters and spent thousands of dollars along the way.
Now is the time to celebrate our accomplishments. It is a time to reflect on our college experience, enjoy the friends we’ve made and thank the people who have made an impact in our lives.
Whether we think we have it all figured out, it’s important to take time for ourselves now. Relax. Spend time with friends. Check out all Moscow has to offer — all the places you never had time to visit between papers, tests and projects.
Life will carry on whether you participate or not, so choose to make the most of these last days.
–BK