Surviving Graduation Season

A few days ago, my Instagram feed exploded with students at Virginia Tech who realized that they have less than 100 days until graduation. Most took this as an excuse to spend the night at TOTS, but I decided to explore exactly how to survive this hectic season. Being someone that is graduating in May, I need all the help I can get before the “real-world” punches me straight in the nose…

Photo Courtesy of Virginia Tech

Get things done early.

Graduation is exciting and anxiety-producing. It’s perfectly acceptable to let the excitement and early-onset FOMO motivate you in your last few months, but be proactive! Run to the bookstore to grab your cap and gown (make sure you have the correct tassel) before Spring Break. It only takes 5 minutes and it’s one less thing you will have to worry about in the last few weeks before commencement. You can also order these on the Virginia Tech bookstore website, which is even easier.

Take a moment to appreciate yourself and your accomplishments.

I have recently found myself stressing about life after graduation and not putting enough emphasis on the achievement that finishing school really is. Pat yourself on the back, spend some time with your friends, and appreciate your last few months in Blacksburg. Everything else is going to workout, I promise.

Prepare yourself for the real-world (just a little bit.)

It’s ok to start looking for a place to live after graduation. Blacksburg will forgive you for leaving. It is also crucial to keep in mind that the process of job hunting is incredibly stressful for some. Take it in stride. You will probably get rejected, you will probably feel underprepared, but you will absolutely be alright. Just take a few baby steps every now and then (like maybe attempt to learn how to cook or something) and it’ll all fall into place.