As a senior graduated from University of Arkansas in December 2024, there were some eye-opening experiences throughout my last semester that made it bittersweet. However, senioritis was at the forefront of my final journey. I wanted to be able to enjoy my last semester, but that pesky homework kept getting in the way!

I started to experience senioritis before my last semester even began. I felt a lack of motivation, a hint of procrastination, and a list of distractions I can’t even begin to name. I was stuck in a rut and could not pull myself out. So, I set out to finally get a handle on these new emotions and found a way to motivate myself to finish the semester strong. Here are some ways that helped me succeed!

Short-term, manageable goals

At the start of my final semester I kept imaging what the ending would look like. However, I had to keep reminding myself to be in the present and look towards the next assignment. I bought a cute planner and a new pack of pens and felt like it was us against the world. I wrote out all my assignments and gave myself plenty of time to do them beforehand. I was also kinder to myself and let myself enjoy breaks in between but prioritized my homework above all else. For example, if I submitted my assignment that was due Friday night on Thursday, I could go out to dinner with my friends and enjoy my time there versus worrying about an assignment. Overall, this helped me collect my thoughts and go day by day.

Stay Involved

One of the biggest accountability tactics was to stay involved on campus. The clubs I was in and the friends I made along the way, helped me to stay accountable while having fun. For example, going to our weekly meetings and participating/presenting new ideas benefitted not only me, but the people I surrounded myself with. This also made me appreciate my campus a bit more because it would (probably) be my last time on this campus as a student.

Be excited!

Wrapping up a college career is a new phase of our lives so balance responsibility and celebration to fully enjoy these moments. I had a new outlook on game days, calling the Hogs, and late-night study sessions with friends at the library. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed and stretched thin but try enjoy it while it lasts!

It has been a long road to where I am at today, and I would not trade a single moment. The good, the bad, the ugly, the fun, and all those individual memories have made my time as a student unforgettable!

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