Dearest gentle reader, as your college chapter nears its end, I want to remind you to take reflection upon all you have achieved over the course of your diploma/degree programs at Fanshawe College. Often, this time can be associated with a chaotic schedule and less about the celebration of your hard work. Here’s your reminder to say yes to opportunities this semester that may not arise again.

Acceptance of letting go 

There are always going to be the things that you didn’t have a chance to do or the places that you didn’t get to visit before your college time concluded. This just means that you still have the opportunity to come back to your college town and do something new or maybe it simply wasn’t meant to happen. Accepting that it is OK and will allow students to move forward with their lives and go onto the next chapter.

Saying yes to opportunities

When opportunities do arise this semester, try and remember in your decision-making that this might be the last time you have an opportunity like this. The last time you’ll be able to study on campus after class, walk or get lost in-between classes, or even being altogether with your classmates. Bask in the gratitude of the present and remember that soon life will look a little different.

Reflecting on your time 

This is the perfect time to look back! Whether it was a short or long journey, take a look into every step of the way that brought you to this place, the little and the big things. This is the moment of gratitude and appreciation for the hard work that you’ve been waiting on. Dwell in these moments as you reflect on your college life as it comes to an end.

What next?

For the most part, this question will probably come frequently to you from everyone around you. Remember that it’s OK if you don’t know the answer. In fact, if you don’t, shift the perspective to appreciate the beauty in the uncertainty that lies ahead of you. Those who do know this answer, don’t take it for granted and enjoy your next steps. In the same context, for both scenarios, we remember that what we think we want can always change and students aren’t trapped in one direction by the choice they make after graduation. If there’s any advice that you take away from this article, let it be to listen to your gut instinct—it won’t steer you wrong.

Saying goodbye

The finale. The last day of your final exams. Prepare for the bittersweet feeling that will wash over your body as you step into your final classroom, saying goodbye to your professors, and your classmates who you don’t know when next you’ll see. The excitement for the adventure of your post-graduate life rushes over you while the sadness of goodbye weaves through your emotions as well.

Let the next few months be a way that you want to remember this season of your life, gentle reader. Maybe that’s giving your all to your academics, visiting places you’ve always wanted to in your college town, or maybe that’s creating memories with your classmates that you’ll look fondly upon in the future. Most of all, just stay in the present. That’s all you can really do to make the most of this final chapter.