Posted on by amlamb27

Episode VI — Second Semester Slump?

Hi everyone!

I believe in the power of honesty when it is used to help others. So, in the sake of full transparency, let me be the first to tell you that second semester slump is real.

I think it’s really important to acknowledge that sometimes, school can be really draining. Am I greatly enjoying my classes, my freedom, and the time I get to spend with my friends and other like-minded individuals here? Of course I am. But that doesn’t magically negate how tasking college life can be.

Things I miss from my first semester:

  1. The magical “summer camp” feeling.
  2. Seeing my parents on a weekly basis at football games. Oh, and their cooking.
  3. The sun setting after 5pm.
  4. Average temperatures being above 30ºF (not even considering wind chill for this one).
  5. Having matching pairs of socks (every single time I do laundry, the dryer eats one of my socks. I can think of no other explanation).

And you know what? That’s okay.

I am a completely different person than I was a year ago today. I am extremely grateful for that — college life urges you to be extremely independent and self-driven, but that doesn’t mean you’ll change without any snags or challenges.

You’re allowed to feel how you feel. You’re allowed to miss when life was simpler, when your parents did your laundry and made food for you. Mourn the past, but more importantly, remember to cherish the present and look forward to the future.

For now, I’ll put on my parka and trudge through campus in my winter boots. Because next semester, during those boiling-hot tailgates, I can guarantee I’ll miss the days when I made snow angels and had impromptu snowball fights with my friends.

So, to my fellow second semester warriors, hang in there. Make snow angels and throw snowballs with (and maybe at) your friends. Brighter days are always ahead. You are not alone if you’re feeling overwhelmed at this time, but don’t forget the resources at your disposal: the chaplains, CAPS, Tomo, Toshi, and the rest of your Holy Cross community are here for you!

A GIF of Dory from Finding Nemo, dancing and saying to Marlin (Nemo's dad): "When life gets you down you know what you gotta do? Just keep swimming, just keep swimming."
A classic! My mom always says this to me whenever I’m feeling stressed. And she’s been right every time! As long as you put your best foot forward, push through, and “just keep swimming,” you’ll be just fine.

I’ll see you all soon! Best wishes for a great week ahead.