Your senior year of college is a momentous and exciting time. Your final year is one last opportunity to enjoy the college experience while preparing for what comes next.
The thought of transitioning into the real world can leave you reeling, but if you make the most of your last semesters, you will be more than ready.
Move Off-Campus
After a few years, a university dorm can feel like home. By your senior year, though, it is time to step out of your comfort zone and embrace independence.
When you move into USC off campus housing, you take on greater responsibility, but it also comes with many perks. You will have more space, more privacy, and more freedom.
Finish Strong
Towards the end of your degree, you might begin to feel burned out like so many other students do. However, you must dig in and finish strong. When you begin your post-college job search, potential employers will likely only have your college transcript and limited work experience to consider. Make sure you finish with the highest possible grades you can.
Make a Bucket List
Just because you need to work hard does not mean you should avoid having some fun as well. Make a bucket list of all the things you wanted to experience in college but never got around to and check off the most important things. This final year may be your last chance to make those experiences happen.
Use the Career Services
Your school has tons of resources available to help you pursue the job of your dreams. Your tuition helps to fund the career services department, so make sure you utilize these tools. You can participate in on-campus recruiting or have someone help you with your resume. If you’re not sure what your next career steps are, someone can likely help you find your direction.
Understand Your Student Loans
Soon you will need to begin making payments on your student loans, and you should not wait to get your head wrapped around this upcoming responsibility. You should make sure you know how much you owe, what your payments will look like, and when your first payment is due. You should also understand your options for deferrals and income-driven repayment plans.
Experience the City
As you look for apartments near USC, you should take the opportunity to get off campus and really explore the city or town your university is located in. There is a good chance that your career will take you to a new city soon, so use this time to experience the city life of the place you are now.
Dedicate Time to Networking
If you have not already made connections with professors, mentors, and other students, this is the time to do it. You will likely see the benefit later in your career.
Whether you are impatient to finish or sad for college to end, your final year is a time to enjoy the college experience for the last time and set yourself up for a vibrant future.