I used to envy my friends on the outside, friends who didn't have to worry about late nights at the library, 20-page papers or huge finals. Then I realized I wasn't seeing the big picture. Being on the outside ultimately brings an end to the things I love.
This year, my senior year, I'm not taking anything for granted.
The stress of worrying about a full-time job and paying the big-time bills has evaded me for another year.
Luckily, I played my cards right and got a schedule chock full of electives. I'm taking classes for fun and not because they are required. Yes, I'll be kayaking this semester.
But now, I've realized this is the time to accomplish all of the things I thought I would do before my graduation. It is my last year, and I can feel it in my bones. This is my last chance.
I want to have explored, or at least stepped foot in, every building on campus and to have written a secret message somewhere where someone will eventually find it years from now.
I want to Rollerblade down the Concourse, play in the snow on Samford.
Have a Spring Break to remember, sing karaoke and play all of the town's trivia.
Learn the ins and outs of Photoshop and also how to do my taxes.
I want to perfect my resume and vote in all elections.
Host a potluck dinner and check out a book for myself from the campus library.
I want to own a Toomer's Drugstore and Momma G's T-shirt and to have my picture taken with Aubie.
I want to clean out my Tigermail and wake up early for the 6 a.m. yoga class.
I want to try something new every day.
My goal is to make sure my weekends are filled with adventures, even if small.
This community is filled with opportunities to learn something or discover something you have never experienced. Don't question doing something different, because it is in these instances you will make your memories.
We all hear that these are the best years of our lives; I know my fondest memories are on this campus, and this year I am further embracing my environment.
I won't worry too much about pulling my next all-nighter, because I know that along with them I am able to celebrate Halloween for a week straight, get tickets to a free concert in the spring and get student discounts.
I want to know when I put on my graduation cap, I can look back and be proud of the time I have spent in Auburn and know that none of it was wasted, and I have fulfilled my college bucket list.
Freshmen take note: make your own checklist because the time flies--especially when you are having fun. And don't forget to thank your professors.
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