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Ready to learn a lesson or two?

I have spent four years going to class, and while I have learned a lot in the classroom, there are still some lessons that academic lectures can’t teach. So, for my last article as a member of the Royal Reporter, I will be sharing some of the best lessons and advice I’ve learned over the past four years.

1. Building relationships is key for success.

Truly knowing people can be so helpful because you never know when one relationship could be a stepping stone to a bigger accomplishment. So, don’t be afraid to say hello first, offer a helping hand or simply be kind to the people around you. You never know when that first interaction will lead to a new friendship, a valuable connection or a memorable relationship. A network of relationships can lead you almost anywhere you want to go.

2. You will never regret developing a relationship with God.

I heard a speaker say this at an event one time, and it stuck with me. She was explaining how there has never been anyone that she knows who claimed that they regret working on their relationship with God. I have come to learn that this is 100% true. People say that being a disciple of Christ is not easy, which is also true, but I believe that if you lean into God’s plan, His timing and His work in your life, you will open yourself up to the miraculous things that God has in store for you.

3. You have an impact on others; make sure it’s a positive one.

There is a Maya Angelou quote that says, “People may forget what you said or what you did, but they will always remember how you made them feel.” Never underestimate the impact you have on other people. You have the power to change someone’s day, so make sure you change it for the better.

4. Grades are not everything.

Yes, grades do matter, but they are not more important than your sleep and your mental health. Your grades definitely do not define you; allow yourself to be someone outside of letters and numbers on a report. And if you think grades are the only thing that matters for college, you’re mistaken.

5. Plan and prepare, but remember to be present.

It’s good to use a calendar, reminders and notes (in fact, I highly recommend all three), but don’t let your brain always worry about the next thing. Remember to be present where you are. If you are stuck looking ahead and thinking about what’s going to happen later, you will miss everything that is going on now. Have a good schedule and a solid plan but never let it distract you from where you are right now.

6. Don’t let fear be the only reason.

If the biggest thing stopping you from doing something is fear, do it anyways. You might later regret letting fear rule your decisions. Go outside your comfort zone. Try new things just to try new things. Never let fear be the only reason you don’t do something.

7. What you’re not changing, you’re choosing.

You cannot complain about not getting good grades and continue to never study. You cannot complain about something you are actively choosing to do. Have the courage and boldness to change your habits because it will often leave you better off.

8. Everyone is going through their own stuff.

Someone might have hurt your feelings or rubbed you the wrong way, but that doesn’t mean it has everything to do with you. People are going through things you cannot even begin to imagine. Everyone is struggling in some way, so be a little more understanding and forgiving.

9. Don’t worry about the future too much.

It’s hard to believe sometimes, but everything will work out. I think everything does happen for a reason, and you often don’t realize that reason until later. That being said, there is no need to worry so much about the future. Matthew 6:34 says, “Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

I can’t believe how fast it has all gone by, and I am so grateful for all the things I have learned at Rosary. To all the juniors, sophomores and freshmen, I hope you stay open to new experiences, enjoy every moment of each day and never forget how much you are loved. To the seniors, may you remember this place fondly, stay connected to those who love you and step confidently into the world with God by your side.