I am graduating in just a couple of weeks. With that, April has brought a variety of senior year celebrations, reflections and emotions. One of these celebrations is a tradition of my sorority: Senior Pearls. This is an opportunity for seniors to share their pearls of wisdom with the rest of the chapter. In my last article for the Creightonian, I want to leave you with my pearls of wisdom, or rather, the opinions I am most passionate about. 

Do it scared. Fear is never an excuse not to do something. You cannot grow when you are comfortable. In fact, the more you stretch yourself in uncomfortable situations, the more comfortable you will be with discomfort.  

Wake up ten minutes earlier than you need to. Ten minutes of extra sleep won’t make you feel more awake, but adding ten minutes to your morning will set your day off on the right foot. You will have time to enjoy a cup of coffee before rushing out the door, listen to your favorite song as you get ready or put on an outfit that makes you feel your best. You will never regret doing this, I promise you. 

If you are able to fit it into your schedule, study abroad. It was the highlight of my college experience. It will push you, give you a new perspective and show you who you really are. I have never heard a single person say they wished they hadn’t. Take the risk; go abroad. 

When you discover something that you are passionate about, chase it. Discovering passions is a privilege. Do not go about pursuing them passively; pour your heart into them. You may be surprised where they lead you.  

If you have a dream, set a goal. The only thing standing between your dreams staying as wishes or becoming reality is yourself. Your goal doesn’t have to be big; just a small one will get you going. Goal setting is critical. 

Be a villager. Pour into others and they will pour into you. Go out of your way for those in your life, whether they’re your best friend or someone you just met. If you are a villager, you will have a whole village in your corner. 

I will miss writing for this paper dearly. I invite you to consider these ideas, and if you choose, to carry them with you. Not just this week, but throughout your life.