Well, that’s a wrap. Go ahead and pat yourself on the back for getting through the school year and making it to the end of the spring semester. 
You did it, and that’s something to celebrate. All of those long nights at the library, tedious papers and the many, many hours spent searching for parking finally paid off. 
A special thanks to the countless cups of coffee that kept you going and to TikTok for providing an excuse to procrastinate just a little longer. Besides, you work better when you wait until the last minute, right?
Either way, you made it, and even though this is a big achievement and something to be happy about, it’s important to know that it is completely normal to be feeling a little bittersweet as well.
For some, the end of the school year may mean finally having the chance to take a much-needed break, but for many others, it means moving on to the next chapter of their lives.
Graduating is a big milestone and an exciting one, but this also comes with leaving what has been your home for years. It comes with leaving the close friends who helped you get through college and leaving the comfort of Clemson’s campus. 
However, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Change is good and a part of life.
Leaving Clemson means you’re one step closer to landing that job you’ve always wanted and are now stepping foot into the real world as a person with a degree. You’re going to continue to grow, encounter new experiences and meet people who will change your life.
So, look forward and embrace what’s to come. Clemson is still a part of your journey, and you can still stay in touch with the friends you’ve made here, but just remember that this isn’t it.
Whether you’re graduating, taking on an internship or just excited to be doing absolutely nothing this summer, be hopeful. Great things are still in store for you all. 
Finish this semester with confidence and embrace the next chapter.
Madison Akers is a junior communication major from Easley, South Carolina. Madison can be reached at [email protected].