AnayaHow are you feeling?
It’s that point of the semester where everything is starting to move at a fast pace. Honestly, it’s only going to move faster after Thanksgiving break because it will go straight into finals season.
Of course, we don’t want to think about it, but it’s happening. The number of assignments due is becoming overwhelming, and the Undergraduate Library is starting to fill with students studying for their next exam or completing their projects. I’ve had a few overwhelming days—weeks, even.
As a senior, trying to handle my many responsibilities can be draining; however, I realize that this does not make me incapable of handling those responsibilities. When I acknowledge that I’m having a rough moment, I also reassure myself that my obstacles don’t define me as a person. Life gets hard, and it’s essential to not talk down on yourself or let it conquer you.
Acknowledge your feelings and accept that this is how you’re feeling at the moment, and it won’t stay that way forever. College can be challenging, but that shouldn’t deter you from managing your stress or anxiety. Please use the campus resources, such as the Counseling Center. Multiple services are offered that will fit your needs. Reach out to a friend or family member and have a conversation with them. Write in a journal, listen to music, take a walk, take a nap—do any necessary steps that will help you take a step back and healthily approach your feelings. If you need help with assignments, reach out to your professors and TAs. You are not alone on your journey because they’re here to assist and guide you with whatever you need.
Your feelings and needs are valid and valued, so make sure you take time for yourself to practice some self-care.
Rest is necessary!
As I stated before, things are starting to pick up the pace. Our time is split up between our professional and personal lives, and we can get so caught up in our responsibilities that we forget that we need to rest. It’s time we learn that taking some time for ourselves to breathe and focus on our mental health does not mean that we are unproductive or lazy. If you’ve had a long week, you’re not boring if you decide you want to stay home for the weekend and watch a movie by yourself or engage in your favorite hobbies to put a smile on your face and your mind at ease (my personal favorite is sleeping).
We make so many plans and follow multiple schedules. Students deserve to take some time to do something that takes their minds off of projects, exams, and assignments for just a while. Rest shouldn’t be a bonus, and treating it as such can lead to burnout and exhaustion. We can be great, successful students as well as healthy and happy people at the same time.
I’m proud of you!
I am very proud of you for pushing through! The hard work that you’re doing and the strength that you display every day to accomplish your goals are recognized and fully supported. Don’t downplay your achievements, even if one of your achievements is going to class or making the decision to take a break and focus on your mental health.
There’s greatness all around you, now and in the future. If you’ve had a challenging day or two, I hope it only gets better from this moment forward. Continue to put your best foot forward because you’re getting so close to accomplishing your goals. You’ve got this!
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