By. Jessica Abrego

If I knew before leaving for spring break that it was the last week I would be on campus, I would have cherished the small things a little more.

If I knew it was the last meal I ate with my friends in the Caf, I would have enjoyed it more. Even if the food was not my favorite. I would have cherished the time with friends a little more.

If I knew that it was the last time in the classroom with my favorite professor I would not have been in a hurry to leave. I would have enjoyed staying five extra minutes longer. Even if I wanted to go back and take a nap.

If I knew it was the last time I would get to sing with the choir I would have sang a little louder and prouder. Even if I was sick of singing the same page over and over because we couldn’t get it right.

If I knew my last voice lesson was the last time I would get to work on my senior recital pieces I would have asked to run every song. Even if it was the 100th time going through the song.

In December if I knew that was the last time I would sing in a Quincy University choir concert I would have taken more pictures. Because now, that concert has become a distant memory.

If I knew roaming the very familiar halls of Francis Hall would have been the last time I would have stopped and said bye to my favorite professors. Now I just cherish the memories I have with them and can only talk to them by video chat or email.

If I could put on a super uncomfortable skirt suit one last time for QUTV I would not complain about how uncomfortable I was. I would smile knowing I was getting to work with my QUTV family one more time.

If I knew one last ride to get an order of fast food would be the last I would have enjoyed the greasy chicken nuggets and not have been in such a rush to end my time with my friends.

If you know a college or high school senior love them and be patient. Our chance to have closure and say goodbye one last time was stolen from us. This new lifestyle is a change for everyone, but especially for seniors.

It’s okay not to be okay right now. It is not selfish to be upset you don’t get to play one last sports game or have your senior voice recital. It is part of your lifestyle, it is what you have worked so hard for all year. Be patient with yourself and know other people share your pain. Reach out to your fellow classmates and friends, stay connected with them. Know that this too shall pass.