Give Yourselves Some Credit: Adventist News Reporter Congratulates Students on End of Semester

And that does it, folks! We have officially survived the 2020-2021 school year, even if it was just barely. And honestly, that in and of itself is an achievement. We should get a medal or a plaque or something! This has been a hard year. However, despite its challenges, we have stuck with it. We have made it through. So, I just wanted to take a moment to stop and give you all some much-deserved credit. I mean, think about it. You are rock stars! Besides tackling the normal stresses of college (which is crazy on its own), you have navigated through the challenges and confusion of a global pandemic. On top of that, you dealt with the turmoil of an election year, crazy weather, social unrest and so much more. So, stop and give yourself a pat on the back. Grab some hand sanitizer and give your friends a high five. You all deserve it! Although it may have felt like it at times, know that your hard work and dedication has not gone unnoticed. The late nights studying, the long days going to work and attending classes – you all crushed it. You did not give up even when you were overwhelmed. When the world felt like it was falling in around you and there was nothing you could do about it you kept going. You pushed through. And we see you. We see what you have accomplished. We see your strength and determination in the face of so much adversity and discouragement. You should be so proud of yourselves!

In addition to congratulating yourself, I want to challenge you to take a moment to reflect on this year. Instead of focusing on all the craziness and stress, try to think back on all the ways that you have personally grown throughout this school year. Ask yourself questions like - How has my character developed? Have I gained more patience, compassion, perseverance, etc.? How has my relationship with God grown? Has it been tested, weakened, strengthened, etc.? Try to see this year as the one in which you pushed yourself and grew in ways you never imagined possible! So, congratulations guys! You did it!

Hannah Olin is a sophomore

history education major from

Princeton, Ill.