By JORDAN MCLEMORE, Student Reporter
Going into my fall semester, I was hit with many things that reminded me of my senior year of high school. That is probably because this fall semester would be my last at NWOSU. I am graduating with a mass communication degree, and unlike my last year in high school, where I knew what I was doing and where I was going; this time, I don’t know what is next. I don’t know what went through my head when I sat down with my advisor and decided to graduate a semester early, thus thrusting me into the harsh, cold, world a whole five months early! Don’t do it people, hold onto that wonderful college time as long as possible! College is one of the best times in your life and we are fortunate enough to be able to spend it at one of the best schools out there.
Now, I may be biased but I have experienced the best advisor (thank you for everything Mrs. Brown!), the best professors, and the best staff that have helped me become who I am. I completed my mandatory internship this semester, and while I scolded myself for taking so long to do it, it couldn’t have come at a better time in my life. While I was struggling to find out my next step, my supervisor, Melinda Barton, reminded me that I don’t have to have everything figured out now, and to take the time to make sure I’m happy with my decision.
That is important to remember, to not push yourself to do what others think you should be doing. Always do what makes you happy. This is the time to make mistakes and to do crazy things! Take every opportunity to try new things. Don’t look back and regret what you didn’t do.
I have dealt with a lot of trials in this final semester, one of them being figuring out what I am doing next. I think a lot of college graduates struggle with the same thing (I hope!). I don’t know what’s next. Man, that’s a scary thing to say. I do, however, know that I have a great education to fall back on and that everyone at Northwestern is rooting for me. I am more than just a number here.
Now I will leave everyone on a happy note. I have had the BEST last semester. I got to travel to California with my amazing mom where we toured the Hollywood Hills, and experience Santa Monica Pier. I have been able to rekindle friendships that I know I will have for a lifetime. Just because you might not know what is coming up does not mean that your life is over, even though it might seem like it. We all go through ups and downs in life.
And, for the last three years, I got to write for the best student newspaper out there, which has been a great learning experience and something that I will always cherish!