Eighteen days. That is how much time many seniors, including myself have at OCU.
As the semester progressed, I began to worry about the things seniors worry about: where to live, what to do and what grad school is right for me. But then, the pieces started to fall into place. I was accepted to the grad school I wanted, I received a good scholarship, I got a job offer and found housing. Then, some uncertainties came to light.
It is scary. No, it is terrifying, to have my career hanging in the balance, wondering if the last four years of education will mean nothing.
Fear is a powerful emotion. It can consume you by taking over all of your thoughts. It can cloud your judgment by dimming hope. My fear of unknown future events created palpable stress I can feel constantly in my shoulders and the pit of my stomach. Fear is real and needs to be acknowledged, or it can overcome you.
The fears of a community can change a culture. Fear of violent religious extremists fosters fear of everyone who is different. Fear leads to prejudice and hate. Fear of changing demographics brings archaic racial tensions to bear.
I pray that the other members of the class of 2016 find peace as they make their final preparations before graduation. If you are struggling to cope with the stress that comes with entering the real world, seek help.
I met with university counseling services to talk last week about my fear and stress. It really helped to talk about my problems, instead of letting that fear well up inside of me.
Fear, if unchecked, can force us to clam-up and try to revert back to the way things were. I have thought, “I would give anything to just go back,” or “I should give up.” But instead, I found support in my friends, professional help and in my faith. To everyone with anxiety about the next step, summer plans or career aspirations, you don’t have to do it alone.
When you are afraid, look to your support system for love, don’t look for hate, and don’t let fear destroy you.
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