Ah, the last summer before graduating. The final season before truly stepping into adulthood. This summer feels different because I have been in school since I was about four years old. Being a student is what I know. Now, I am preparing to enter the next stage of my life where summer, as I have known it, will no longer exist. It will be working all year round—true adulting.
I am excited about what is to come, but I also want to enjoy this period to the fullest because it is my last summer waiting for school to start—unless I decide to pursue further studies later. This feels like my last real chance to rest before moving into the next stage of life.
Cherishing Special Moments
This summer, I am truly savoring special moments with family and friends. It is likely my last time living at home, and the last chance to fully enjoy moments with friends, some of whom have already started working full-time or have gotten married. This summer has already been beautiful in many ways because I have been fully present, appreciating these precious moments. I am thankful for these times at home, knowing they are temporary.
Is it not crazy to think about how you will not always live with your parents or siblings? We often consider leaving our parents’ home, but that includes leaving siblings and pets too. This summer feels different because, unlike other summers, I know school will eventually end, and I will not be returning home. I do not plan on moving back after graduating in the fall. At some point, I have to step into the next stage of life.
Reflecting on the Future
I feel that this last summer is a beautiful time to really think about what I want out of my final moments in college. I know for a fact that I want to be more grateful for my school experience. I want to continue building up my business. I want to start planning for the future and hold myself accountable to make smart decisions that will benefit me after college. I want to make the most of my time on campus. There are many things I want to be intentional about for my last semester that I may not be able to get the opportunity to prioritize later in life.
Encouragement for Fellow Graduates
To my friends who are also experiencing their last summer, I want to encourage you to take it in. This is a beautiful time. It is our last season before stepping into the “real world.” Even if college, high school, or any other school period was not as great for you, it still took up a huge portion of your life. Change is not always easy, but it can be beautiful to push through and embrace. I am looking forward to this next stage of life. Let us not let college or high school be our peak. Let us continue to grow, improve, and be better for ourselves and our future families.
