Four Realizations of a Fourth-year College Student

As a senior college student, the past four years of my life were no easy feat. It literally took blood, sweat, and tears to finally arrive to where I am right now.

Contrary to freshman year that feels like yesterday, the last year of college prior to graduation is somehow taking forever. It was a series of self-doubts, anxiety, and breakdowns along the way. While this may be true, one thing is for sure - being a senior student in itself is an answered prayer.

(SLIDESHOW: The gallery above shows the blogger's pictures from first year to fourth year of college, of roles in online acting sessions to roles in student organizations. )

With all the seemingly never-ending school works and student organization duties in my plate, it is really possible to lose my sanity. Such a busy, fast-paced lifestyle can feel draining. This is why it is still essential to slow down, pause, and reflect - and I do so as I write this blog entry.

Below are four major lessons I learned along my college journey:

1. You are not always at your best, nor the best.

Having spent my elementary and high school days being "on top" of the game all the time, I learned that college is a different one. Most of the time, college does not uplift you - it humbles you down.

People used to make me believe that I am a great multi-tasker as a kid. As I grow older, life started to hit hard. I realized that my best has different versions depending on my current situation. I can never be productive 24/7. I can only endure so much.

Before, I was used to being the only brainiac around. At least, that is what my classmates and family say. As I entered college, I encountered different types of equally-amazing and talented people. We were able to share our knowledge and learn from each other.

Most of the time, college does not uplift you - it humbles you down.

2. Your college circle can either positively or negatively influence you and your college life decisions.

Ever heard of the line "Tell me who your friends are and I'll tell you who you are"? It is now more than ever that this resonated with me.

In college, you will meet a lot of people with various personalities, experiences, beliefs, and backgrounds. You might find yourself being acquainted to certain groups along the way, but this is where you might unknowingly dig your own pitfall. Remember that our social environment plays a major role in shaping our behavior, attitudes, and decisions. Make sure to practice discernment and choose your the people you associated with wisely.

It is very important to stand true to yourself and the things you believe are right, even though it means standing alone.

3. Your grades do not define you - your perseverance and discipline does.

Most people hold on to the adage "Grades do not define a person" to counter the importance of valuing our studies. As a senior student, I say NO. It is crucial to believe so with precaution as it may lead to mediocrity and indifference.

Surely, grades are just numbers with case-to-case basis. Yet, the goal must not to have high grades or honors at all. What matters are the values, habits, and skills we get to learn as we go on in our academic lives. These are what we will bring with us as we face the real world.

At the end, it is your lifestyle of excellence and hard work that will define you.

4. Your college life can only last for so long, so make the most out of it.

Truth be said, college commonly consists of four years only. One day, you will look up from your feet and it is senior year. With that, it is necessary to maximize the time you have at your institution.

College gives you the freedom to explore, discover, and try new things. It is where you will get to defy your limit, face your fears, and take on adventures you never thought you can before. Believe me when I say I promised myself four years ago that I will focus on my studies and refrain from extra-curricular activities anymore. But here I am, taking on the role of being the Editor-in-Chief of our student publication. It is by doing so that I got to harness my skills and unlock my fullest potential.

This is the time to collect memories and learn to make decisions - and when I say so, I do not meant just the good ones. Do not cage yourself in a corner. Get out there, take up space, and take some calculated risks. When the time comes you make mistakes, remember that it is not yet game-over. What changes the game is how you learn and get up again - stronger and wiser.