Hey there, you amazing human! I want to draw your attention to all the hard work you just accomplished. Yes, you, the one who conquered those seemingly insurmountable mountains of study guides, projects, final semester assignments, and exams. Give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back because guess what? That was a LOT of work, and YOU DID IT! (Cue confetti sprinkles, fireworks, and a round of applause or two.)
You survived exam week. You showed up, worked hard, didn’t give up, and worked hard some more. That’s a lot to be proud of. Take a moment to celebrate all that you have accomplished. Think back to the first day of class and reading those syllabus novels. The readings, assignments, quizzes, and tests – you did all that, for every class. And, hopefully, you learned tons along the way. You might have even discovered a thing or two about yourself. You might have even uncovered a new passion or found the path you want to pursue.
As this week is wrapping up and you begin your farewell bid to campus (and all those late-night study sessions), take a moment to reflect on the things you’re proud of and grateful for. Write down five things. Research shows that after or during a time of significant stress, practicing gratitude can improve your mental and physical well-being. It can also help you identify important moments of your journey.
Next, let the weight of those textbooks slide off your shoulders. It’s time to shift gears. Summer is knocking at your door with promises of sunshine, relaxation, and adventures waiting to be had.
So, take a deep breath and let go of the tension and stress you’ve just experienced. While we understand that many of you still have responsibilities during summer time (jobs, internships, family, or maybe even a class or two), try to view summer as a chance for you to recharge your batteries, nourish your soul, and rediscover the joy in the simple things – like flip-flops, ice cream cones, the laughter of friends, and the warmth of the sunshine.
For now, my friend, let’s raise a toast to all your accomplishments, both big and small. Let’s release our pent-up tension and remember the moments of doubt you overcame and the resilience that carried you through. Here’s to you! *HOORAH*
So go ahead, soak up the sunshine, chase those dreams, and make memories that will last a lifetime. You’ve earned it. Here’s to an unforgettable summer filled with endless possibilities. Cheers to you!