Senior spring at Princeton is a kind of romantic, eternal orange sunset that leaves seniors surprisingly detached from their manic, sleep-deprived selves of the previous three-and-a-half years and finally able to reflect a bit. My first thought is that everything went far too quickly. And, amazingly enough, I find myself wishing that I'd been able to fit more in. You might want to kick me for saying that (I know you're swamped), but now that I think about it, I never regretted going to a friend's play, concert or gallery showing when I had an assignment due or an exam the next day. In fact, those little breaks were ultimately more inspiring than trudging relentlessly through work, and in the long run they, more than Red Bull and coffee, kept me stimulated and kept me going. It's like taking a moment to get some exercise (another worthwhile study break): When the stress seems like it's about to swallow you up, remember that it only takes 10 minutes to run to the Battlefield to catch your breath and some fresh air.
In my last few weeks as a Princeton student, I am still meeting new people every week who thrill me. So, the best advice I can give is to put yourself out there, starting now. Listen to the people around you, who all have something worthwhile to say. Engage in a conversation on a foreign topic (and try not to bullshit). Take advantage of good company, but make time to make yourself smile. Travel - if only to Route 1 on a Friday - and travel home. Make your way to lectures, the Woody Woo Fountain and the dance floor. So long as you reach out, don't isolate yourself and take a few risks. There are no dull moments here. In fact, it's the time of your life.
- Veronica