Being Present Yet Proactive

By Lauren Jones

As a graduating senior, it can be hard to soak in each moment while also prepping for the next phase of life. I have definitely struggled with balancing time between being present and being proactive. Through this melancholy journey, I have discovered some methodologies that have helped me establish a balance. 

Firstly, prioritize spending time with your friends. Although Villanova friendships past the test of time, this period of life together as Villanovan undergraduates are finite. Sign up for all of the school events and make plans to see the friends you have made over the years, especially the ones you haven’t spoken to in a while. Document these moments through photos, videos, voice memos, or by writing them down. When you are older, you will want to remember exactly what you were feeling during these final days. And be sure to tell your peers, roommates, and professors how much you appreciate them. 

As for your own personal journey, soak in every moment with this version of yourself, even the bad ones. In moments of being overwhelmed, confused, or uncertain, allow yourself to feel it, but not take you over. One day when everything is exactly how you dreamed (or even better) you will be able to look back and laugh at how much you worried about the future. Even though parts of the journey were far from perfect, you have grown since first stepping foot on this campus, which is certainly something to honor.  

Set aside time during the weekdays to plan and get excited about them. You can simultaneously use this as more time to spend with friends by working together on your laptops outside during the warm Spring days! Work with your professors, friends, parents, or the Career Center to develop a personalized plan for yourself. It is a scary, new, and overwhelming process, but it will also be thrilling. Just as we felt nervous and anxious arriving on campus freshman year, we will feel a bit scared entering this next step of life. I had no idea what would occur during my four years at Villanova, but it was better than I could have imagined. Because of that, I hope that this next phase will be even better. 

Even though there are a lot of “lasts” happening around us, there can be even more “firsts” if you allow there to be. Here’s to celebrating some of the best days of our lives and for even better ones to come.