Warning: cliché incoming.

When I was a kid, I never quite understood why adults made such a big fuss over how much taller I had grown since they last saw me. 

Family friends or relatives that only came around once every few years often would say something along the lines of: “You were only about this big the last time I saw you. Man, does time ever fly.”

I always smiled and nodded my head, but truthfully, in my adolescent mind, time did not fly. Year after year, I went through the same routine: 180 grueling days of school, followed by 70 sweet days of freedom in the summer. 

Like most kids, I could not wait to grow up. I was constantly looking ahead – always chasing the next milestone: 16, then 18, then 21.

Now, as I enter my senior year at Shippensburg University, I find myself baffled by how quickly time has flown by. Who would’ve thought the adults were right all along? 

The last four years have been, without a doubt, the most impactful of my entire life. I came out of my shell, embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and met so many amazing people. But I also cut ties, experienced multiple burnouts and lost one of the most important people in my life. 

I’m excited for what’s to come after college, but I’m also terrified. I don’t want to leave the comfortable routine I’ve followed for the past four years, but I know that I must. 

My goal for my final year at Shippensburg University is simply to enjoy it. To soak in those late-night study sessions, early morning classes and everything in between.  

For my fellow seniors, I hope you can make the most of your final year of undergrad. Time is a thief, and we’ve reached the beginning of the end. But time is also a gift. Make the most of every moment. 

If you’re an underclassman, time is still on your side. What are you waiting for? Go get involved in that organization that piqued your interest. Study abroad halfway across the world. Seize every opportunity you are presented with. And go to that gen ed class you hate. 

The beginning of your end will be here before you know it. I can confidently say that I’ve made the most of my time here at SU thus far. Will you feel the same?

Share