By Macharia Patrick Mwangi, a bachelor of Education Arts Student at Zetech University
By the time we reach the final year in the university, all we know and are accustomed to are the schedules and the predictable academic cycles. But on this final step, the air feels different, thicker with expectations and uncertainty. At this stage, finalists find themselves less in conversations about assignments and CATS and more often in job application conversations. Weekend plans are gradually replaced with hustles for internships and networking sessions. This feeling is not only academic but also personal, as it is obvious that the final semester on campus marks a crucial turning point in one's life, and these feelings are certainly more normal than they appear. This article explores some tips to help finalists navigate their final stretch with focus and optimism.
Acknowledge that the uncertainty is normal
The feeling of uncertainty about what comes next is normal, and almost every graduating student experiences it. Recognising and accepting this feeling doesn't mean you're unprepared, but it simply means you care about what will happen next. So, embrace the uncertainty with positivity and confidence.
Future plans
It is very easy and common to get caught up in the thought of what comes after the final paper. This uncertainty can make you feel overwhelmed by the thought that you should have your whole life mapped out before graduation. But here is an important reminder: Future plans are for the future. And now in the present, your most urgent and important business is finishing strong academically in this final stretch. This means focusing on attending those classes, doing Finish assignments, giving your best in the CATS, working on your project, and also, this is a good time to work on that thesis you have been meaning to do for so long. Investing your energy in what you can control now will set a strong foundation for whatever comes next.
Start exploring career options
While, as discussed above, focusing on the present is the prudent way of tackling this phase, waiting until graduation to take your next steps can, at times, increase your anxiety. Taking small steps in getting career clarity can ease some of this pressure. Here are some of the smart, simple ways to start on this journey.
- Polish your CV or start writing one. Now is the best time to take a moment and reflect on your CV and update it with your recent academic projects, leadership roles, or internships. And if you don’t have a CV yet, it is never too late to write one; having a good CV will prove useful in your near future when opportunities arise.
- Browse job portals and the company's website. Even if you are not yet ready to apply for the jobs, gaining knowledge on the job market will help you be better prepared mentally and even academically on the qualifications, skills, and experiences that employers are currently seeking.
- Polish your online presence—an updated professional online profile increases your visibility and opens more networking opportunities. Creating an online portfolio and a LinkedIn account can be a great way to start this.
- Visiting your school's career office—At this stage, you might need a professional take on your career path, and the best place to start is your campus academic office. This puts you in a position to get free reviews on your CV, mock interviews, and even exclusive job listings.
While options are many, remember that at this stage, the goal is not to make a final decision about your career but to stay informed, build awareness, and reduce the fear of uncertainty.
Taking a moment to smell the roses
The combination of the final exams, uncertainty of the next step to take, job and internship applications, and planning your future can all take a toll on your mental health. Setting aside time for rest is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Regular breaks and proper sleep will help you recharge and help you both mentally and physically. But beyond rest, take time to savor the moment; chances are, a moment might be the last time you're sitting with your friends in the campus cafeteria for coffee or walking down those familiar hallways. These small moments are part of your university story; acknowledge them and allow yourself to be present. Also, connecting with friends, exercising, and talking to your school counselor about your academics and mental health can help ease the tension.
In these final moments, balancing productivity with presence will help you go through this final stretch both mentally strong and emotionally fulfilled.
In conclusion, yes, there might not be a next semester, but it marks not the end but a pivotal transition to the next important chapter in your life. By embracing the normal uncertainty feeling, focusing on finishing strong in your academics, proactively exploring career avenues, and crucially maintaining your well being you ready yourself to navigate the next phase.