Hello again, Bears! I am having such a hard time believing that the end of the semester is so close. With that, I’ve found I’ve spent quite a bit of time reflecting on what this semester and past semesters have brought me, as well as the growth that I feel has taken place for me throughout my college journey. While I don’t graduate until later this year, this semester’s conclusion does bring some big life changes to me, and when things are changing in your life, I think it’s important to find moments to be present and think about—well, all sorts of things. I thought that I would use my post for this week, and my last post for this semester, to prompt you to do the same, especially if you are like me and have some big changes coming in your life with the conclusion of this academic year.  

Thinking About Opportunities

One thing I catch myself thinking about rather frequently is how much (or how little) I take advantage of opportunities presented to me, how often I seek opportunities, and whether or not I regret pursuing an opportunity or choosing not to pursue a specific one. I try not to get too wrapped up in decisions of the past, since, whether I may regret something or not, the past cannot be changed, but I also believe that there is some merit in looking back on those instances. It’s especially important to think about past opportunities just so you can be grateful for them. Gratitude is infinitely valuable, and can be quite the motivator when things are changing or circumstances are tough. Reflecting on different opportunities you may or may not have had can also help you determine what you want to pursue in the future.  

One opportunity that I am grateful I took this year was to review submissions for Moon City Review, the literary journal run by Moon City Press. Being a student reviewer has helped me become a better writer and connect more with Creative Writing faculty. By learning that I enjoy the behind-the-scenes of publishing, I now know that’s something I can pursue later, whether academically or in a career.  

Thinking About Growth

Even when my life isn’t particularly exciting, I find it beneficial to sit back occasionally and reflect on how I have grown throughout college and the past few years of my life in general. There’s a reason why college is considered one of the most revolutionary experiences people can have in their lives—it is very much a time of growth and inner development. 

There are countless ways in which I feel I’ve grown throughout my college journey. College has helped me figure out who I am, as well as learn about my values, moral compass, and strengths and weaknesses. I’ve also learned about my hobbies, and what I will find fulfilling in a future career. Consider spending some time thinking about the ways that you have grown, whether this has been your first or fourth year in college. Doing so helps me retain gratitude for how far I’ve come, as well as a sense of pride in who I am now.  

Thinking About the Future

In the same way that I try not to dwell too much on the past, I try not to think too much about the future, since, very much to my own remorse, I cannot predict it. However, in the same manner that I think reminiscing on the past is beneficial for the sake of gratitude, thinking about the future in some regard can be good solely for the sake of building excitement. Even though change can be intimidating, it helps me to think about all of the good things that the change will bring, as well as all of the things that I’m excited for in the next chapter of my life. It also helps to set goals for myself, even if they are small, so that I always have something to ground me while everything else is changing. It’s the absolute best feeling when you’re able to look back and realize that you completed a goal that you set for yourself.  

One goal that I’ve set for myself this year, for example, is to get at least one creative work that I’ve written published in a literary journal. But even if my work doesn’t get accepted, I can still be proud that I sent my work off and put in the effort to meet my goal. Even if it’s small, and even if it’s just one, I encourage you to set a goal for yourself as this academic year comes to a close. Make it realistic and obtainable, so that you can experience that satisfaction and pride when you complete it in your future.  

Takeaways 

Regardless of how much or how little your life may be changing as this semester approaches its conclusion, I hope that my blog entry prompts you to spend some time reflecting. As you continue to think about all of these things and more, remember to stay present in the current semester too! Keep working hard and finish strong. If you are struggling and need help, remember that the CAST office is here as a resource to you, and our Success Coaches and Peer Mentors want to help you succeed! Being a philosopher at heart, I will leave you with my absolute favorite quote from Socrates: 

“The unexamined life is not worth living.” – Socrates 

I hope you have a fantastic conclusion to your semester and a fulfilling summer! 

~Hallie 

(Bio: I am a junior out-of-state student studying Creative Writing and Philosophy.)