As graduation approaches, seniors at Sacred Heart University are reflecting on how quickly their college years have passed and what comes next after leaving campus in May.
With spring break over, seniors feel the shift toward urgency.
“Post-spring break feels different as a senior. There’s more focus and intention,” said senior Ricky Rodriguez.
“I feel fine. I have some plans for the immediate future, but I’m not too sure about the long term,” said senior communications major Giancarlo Broccoli. “You might have to get back to me on that one.”
For many seniors, the last year of college has seemed to fly by the quickest.
“It honestly feels unreal. It feels like I just moved in yesterday, trying to figure everything out, and now I’m preparing to graduate,” said Rodriguez. “I feel grateful more than anything.”
Even though three years doesn’t seem that long, the mental and spiritual growth for some students can be exponential. Rodriguez, graduating in his third year with a double major in music production and marketing, said the experience has been overwhelming in the best way.
“I started at SHU at 19 years old, and now, at 21, I can clearly see how much I’ve grown academically, personally, and as a leader,” said Rodriguez.
For others, the transition out of college brings a mix of excitement and uncertainty.
“It’s scary,” said senior political science major William Conway. “Everything is changing incredibly fast. However, I’m also excited. I can do so much more once I am out of here.”
Balancing academics, projects and personal time is another challenge seniors face. Broccoli, who is working on a film for his senior project, says he does his best to stay grounded.
“Some days it can seem like a grueling process to get my script on a screen, but I know this is only a minor setback in my daily plans,” said Broccoli.
Many students also hope to complete bucket-list goals before May. Rodriguez plans to perform at the Goon 5 concert on April 25 in the Edgerton Theater.
“That show represents everything I’ve built creatively and as a leader,” said Rodriguez.
Conway says he hopes to continue learning and use his education to help others.
“It is incredibly important to know how politics and society work,” said Conway. “My hope is that I can continue to learn and fight for those who need help.”
Some students have simpler plans, just looking to enjoy the last few months with their fellow pioneers.
“My bucket list consists of going crazy and having a good time,” said Broccoli.
