Kirby Johnson: St. John’s University senior, soon-to-be alumnus. That last part is a scary thought shared by many seniors as graduation approaches.
For me, the reality of our looming graduation started a little bit less than a year ago when the first person told me, “Wow, you’re already a senior. Before you know it you’ll be done!” He was right.
No matter how fast or slow college has passed, most of us seniors are looking back at our four years and are thinking about what we should or could have done with our time here — we’re making our CSB/SJU “bucket lists,” if you will.
My bucket list began to take shape last fall when, as an orientation leader, I saw an inspiring video at an orientation event made by four CSB/SJU seniors titled “101 Things to Do at CSB/SJU” (check it out on YouTube). For the incoming students, it was a time to get excited about what was to come, but for me it was a time of reflection and planning.
I began checking off some I-have-always-wanted-to-do-this-but-don’t-have-the-time-right-now things from my bucket list. Participate in the OLC’s Eco-Challenge: check. Swim across Lake Sag to the chapel: check. Make the closing announcement at Alcuin Library: check.
Spring semester, things started getting more serious, so the list took physical form and I kept checking things off. Sleep in one of the libraries: check (“Campout in Clemens” ring a bell?). Help plan the Fruit at the Finish Triathlon: check. Road trip over Spring Break: check. Write an opinion column in the Record: I guess I can add another check mark.
And of course, there are things I have yet to check off and things that might not ever get checked off. Be pictured on the CSB/SJU home page: no check. Have a couple of drinks during class: no check. Go on an urban plunge with SJU Campus Ministry: no check.
But more importantly, as I look back at my time at CSB/SJU, I realize the most important goals that I have achieved. Getting involved in something I’m passionate about. Making the Dean’s List. Getting into graduate school. Making lifelong friends.
I can proudly leave St. John’s saying I have accomplished each of these goals.
Now, for some advice to those who still have a year or more left here. Take advantage of the time you have at these wonderful institutions.
Set goals for yourself and work toward them. Have fun. Challenge yourself. Try something new. Get out of your comfort zone. And, most of all, live with no regrets.
Do not waste a moment of your college career. Because, before you know it, you’ll be two weeks from graduation, wondering where it all went.
This is the opinion of Kirby Johnson, an SJU senior.