The Final Stretch: Embracing Your Senior Year and Preparing for the Future

AJ Magamura and friends take a selfie in front of the Al Whittle Theatre

AJ Magamura (he/him) is a 4th year business student and marketing major. He is a student-athlete on the men’s soccer team and a student content creator. A big sports fan at heart, he can be found at the athletics complex either playing/training or cheering on his fellow athletes.

Ah, senior year. It’s hard to believe that one minute we are first years, trying to figure out how to balance classes, social life, and laundry, and now we’re standing on the edge of graduation, looking down at the unknown and filled with anxiety, nostalgia, and excitement. We’ve spent the past couple of years trying our best to carve out our academic path, making lifelong friendships, and hopefully getting ready to take on the world. But now as the clock counts down on our time here, it’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of what’s next.

But here’s the thing: It’s absolutely normal to feel anxious about the future – whether it’s landing that dream job, figuring out where you’re going to live, or just wondering how you’re supposed to adult (spoiler: no one really has it figured out). What you really need to remember is that this present moment, right here, right now, is just as important too.

AJ Magamura and Axemen Soccer teammates pose with a cake in the locker room

The Future Is Uncertain, and That’s Okay

You might be looking ahead at what seems like a whole lot of unknowns. You’ve been told over and over again that this is the time to plan for your career, build your network, and secure your future. While those things are undeniably important, they don’t have to dominate every waking moment of your senior year. The future, no matter how uncertain it feels, will still unfold—even if you don’t have it all figured out yet.

In fact, one of the biggest myths about post-graduation life is that you need to have everything planned out. That’s simply not true. Everyone’s journey is unique, and your path will unfold in its own time. So, rather than stressing over every potential job offer, grad school application, or career decision, give yourself permission to enjoy the ride as well.

The University Experience is a Once-in-a-Lifetime Journey

One thing that makes university life so special is that you may only experience it once. The late-night study sessions in the library, campus events, spontaneous adventures with friends—all these small moments add up to something far greater than just a degree. This time in your life is one that won’t be replicated, no matter how many times you reminisce or wish you could turn back the clock.

So, take a step back and soak it all in. Attend that event you’ve been meaning to go to but kept putting off. Take a break from the grind and catch up with friends you haven’t seen in a while. Allow yourself to be present in the final months of your university experience. There’s no rush to move on; in fact, there’s value in savouring the time you have left.

Male varsity soccer athletes smile while on the team bus

Embrace the Opportunities Around You

Before you get too caught up in the "what’s next?" question, let’s talk about what’s right in front of you. University offers a treasure trove of opportunities that you might not even realize are there. Whether it’s networking with professors, connecting with peers who might share similar passions, or getting involved in a club or initiative, there’s so much to discover before you graduate.

These last months can serve as your final opportunity to ask questions, learn new things, and challenge yourself in ways you may not have considered before. The opportunities to grow and explore are plentiful, and each one could lead to something life-changing, or maybe just something fun. Whether it’s meeting someone who will become a mentor or finding a passion you didn’t know you had, the best way to prepare for the future is by maximizing the present.

Make the Most of the Journey

If you’re feeling stressed about the future, remember this: your journey is unfolding just the way it’s meant to. Your university years are a gift—one that not everyone gets to experience. Don’t let the fear of what’s next rob you of the joy that comes with being present. The uncertainty of the future is part of what makes it exciting, and by embracing it, you’ll be more than ready to take on whatever comes your way.

Your future is important, but right now, enjoy the final months of this incredible journey. Take in every laugh, late-night conversation, and opportunity that comes your way. Because soon enough, you'll be looking back with fond memories, grateful for the time you had, and ready for whatever comes next.

Now, let’s make the most of it. Cheers to the future, and here’s to the present—let’s enjoy every moment.

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