Whether you are in kindergarten or graduate school, this time of the year is exciting for students of all ages. We think back to where we began in September and remember how little we knew in our studies. As the school year draws to a close, we celebrate how much we have learned and grown, not just as students, but also as people. We take pride in the challenges that we have overcome and think back fondly on the memories we have made.

For many, the end of the school year is incredibly bittersweet. On one hand, we get to wave goodbye to all of the stress that goes along with being a student as we eagerly anticipate a well-deserved break. However, we also find ourselves thinking about all the experiences we have had, friends made, kind words exchanged and amazing new things we learned.

Sometimes we get so buried in the stress and work of school that we forget to slow down and appreciate how we have truly been blessed. No matter how much you dislike your classes, school, peers or teachers, your education should never be taken for granted. Seek the positive in our educational situation and you will find it. Having a hard time finding something to appreciate? That’s your cue to be a positive influence, no matter where in the world you find yourself.

The end of the school year means the beginning of summer, which brings many changes for all students. This could mean embarking on trips around the globe, taking summer classes or heading off to work or to an internship. Summer plans can be variable, and it often takes students time to form a plan. What can be stressful is looking for a summer position in the midst of work at school.

I tried to get ahead of the game this year by applying to at least one position each day over my spring break in March. I wasn’t hearing from anyone and was a little disappointed. Eventually, I had the opportunity of doing two phone interviews with potential summer employers. Both decided they would pursue other candidates, so was back on the hunt.

As spring quarter slipped away, I started to worry about not having a plan for summer. I changed my approach from a public relations internship to virtually any position that was not retail or food service. I had one in-person interview last Wednesday and a second interview yesterday. Today, I was informed via email that I had gotten the position. I feel so excited and relieved that this opportunity finally came though.

Through this experience, I learned the importance of patience and waiting for God’ perfect timing. I was so frustrated when the first opportunities were not working out. Instead of trusting that those positions were not the ones God had intended for me, I chose to worry and stress even more.

I began to pray earnestly about the situation over the past month, and I am so thankful for how God provided. Some could argue that I would have gotten the job without God’s provision, but I believe that he wanted to teach me about trust, patience and the importance of prayer. I am incredibly thankful for this opportunity and am eagerly looking forward to my next chapter.