The end of the fall semester is coming up and Suffolk University students are feeling a variety of emotions. The relief of stress-inducing classes ending and anxiety about looming final exams, but also feeling accomplished at finishing semester-long goals and getting those final projects submitted while juggling responsibilities in and out of the classroom.
“I feel like the semester has gone by too quickly,” said Ariana Colon, a freshman majoring in media and film. “If I could say one word, it would be overwhelmed.”
Colon says she’s felt overburdened with schoolwork, but not all feelings towards this past semester are bleak. Looking forward to the upcoming spring semester, Colon has a better idea of how to enter the next phase of the academic year.
“I’m definitely better prepared, because I know what’s coming,” said Colon. “So much has happened this semester that I now know how to deal with next semester in a better way.”
Colon’s sentiments are shared by her peers; many of them describe feeling overwhelmed by the workload that accumulates at the end of the semester.
Raven Giannino, a freshman sociology major, reports feeling less than satisfied with her work at this point in the semester.
“I don’t feel like I’m doing my best,” said Giannino. “The first semester was an adjustment.”
In addition to individual challenges, many students are also navigating the complexities of maintaining a healthy social life.
“Next semester, I really want to try to put myself out there socially,” said Giannino.
However, not all students are feeling the weight of stress. For some, the nearing end of fall classes means making new goals for next semester.
The pressures of academic performance, extracurricular activities and social expectations have left many overwhelmed by the different alcoves of college life, and with that coping strategies are essential for students to find ways to manage their mental health and thrive in such a demanding environment.
Grace Edwards, a sophomore criminal justice major, is feeling prepared for what the spring semester will bring. Edwards has words of advice for those who are not feeling as secure at this time.
“Be easy on yourself and be more aware of your resources,” said Edwards. “Stay where you are and be gentle with yourself.”
In her second year at Suffolk, Edwards says she feels that the time is going by quickly.
“The months feel long, but with all that’s happened it feels like it’s flying by,” said Edwards. “Definitely easier than freshman year.”
Edwards encourages her peers to go outside as much as they can, live in the moment and be mindful of their surroundings.
Ultimately, as the semester winds down, students are reminded to take a breath, relax and pace themselves. With a mix of determination and hopefulness for what is to come, they are bracing themselves for the end of this half of the 2024-2025 academic year, looking forward to a well-deserved break and the chance to recharge before the next semester begins.
