By Nicarlyle Hanchard / The Jambar
I gravely underestimated this semester. For an unknown reason, I thought my junior year would be “soft-soap.”
I thought if I smiled and winked at my assignments then they would complete themselves — that the ideas marinating in my head for days on end, would somehow end up in the Microsoft Word document and be submitted on Blackboard. That was not the case.
My assignments and I held several staring contests. I cannot say who won, as Blackboard holds that answer. I tried having a planner. It may have helped for three out of the 16 weeks. Was that a skill issue? I will neither confirm nor deny the likelihood.
I did a lot of walking this year. I most definitely got my steps in — along with ankle and knee pains. It was worth it. I met new people, and had great experiences.
To some extent, I believe I added too much to my plate. Did I chew all of it? Yes, I am a bit bloated, but I ate. On a serious note, I could have done a lot better.
Though I did my best with what I had, there were times I prolonged procrastination and found myself in a rather uncomfortable situation. I persevered and made it to week 15, thank the heavens.
With two finals and a few assignments left to close my junior year, I am looking toward my senior year. I already feel overwhelmed.
The anticipation of the assignments isn’t where the angst lies, it’s the fact that I am one step closer to true adulthood — responsibilities and all.
A coworker of mine asked if I don’t already have responsibilities. I do, but something about entering senior year feels surreal. I would like time to stop, briefly, so I can take in this moment in context of all that’s happening within and without.
That said, senior year is going to happen whether I want it to or not. I can only outline my plans for the year, even to the most minute detail. That in itself sounds daunting and is rather repulsive, but it is the truth.
Part of said preparation is ensuring I have a fantastic summer. I always feel like the summer comes and I am burdened with the weight of the previous school year and the expectations of the next. By the time I ditch the boots and begin to frolic, it’s time to pick my “first-day outfit.”
I hope to switch that focus this summer. It’s my last summer being as youthful as I am, and I believe there is value in enjoying that.