When you step into college as a first-year student, everything is new. Over your four years, you have time to gain lived experiences and grow into a semi-adult. When you step into your senior year, you are a seasoned college student.

However, I was surprised to find that, for me, thinking about senior year was more terrifying than my first year.

As a senior, you’re taking your last undergraduate classes and interviewing for full-time positions. You're moving away from friendships you developed, and reality starts to set in. I get it; it's scary and it can make your chest feel tighter.

Surviving your senior year starts with strategy and planning. How you plan your senior year truly affects how you feel when you walk across that stage. My plan involved three key steps: learning to breathe, creating a realistic timeline and budget, and finally, making time to enjoy the experience.

Just Breathe

When I got settled at the end of my first week of classes, I realized I was extremely overwhelmed. Rightfully so; I work three jobs and am involved in more than five organizations on campus.

I had to take a step back and relax. I did that with focused breathing to calm my nervous system.

One breathing technique is to inhale for four seconds and then exhale for eight seconds. I did that until my heart slowed. Breathing techniques are effective, but so is my planner.

Plan Your Time

My planner is my lifeline. It helps me through the days that start at 7 a.m. and don’t end until 10 p.m. By breathing and planning, I made senior year less stressful.

In my planner, I meticulously color-code my schedule: classes, my three jobs, my organizations, remote meetings, and even the gym. While this level of detail might seem extreme, it’s what works for me.

On the flip side, I knew I needed to be realistic, as there are only twenty-four hours in a day. By being realistic, I build break times into my day to allow for unexpected events. When you know what you’re doing throughout the day, it lessens the stress.

Plan Your Budget

Now, let’s talk budgeting. As a first-generation college student, I find it hard to maintain financial stability.

My biggest tip is to hold off on buying something you want until after the urge passes; don’t make impulse purchases. Second, track what you spend and how much you save.

If withdrawing cash helps you save, do that. If cutting up your credit card saves you from future debt, consider it a necessary step. The key is to do what works for you.

Don't Forget to Enjoy It

Lastly, it’s your senior year. You are so close to walking across that stage, so enjoy it. You deserve to have fun!

Remember, it’s all about balance. Spend time with your friends, try new foods, and speak to people who have been in your classes for the last three years.

For some of you, this will be your very last time in college, so embrace the chaos and enjoy your senior year to the fullest!

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