No one really warns you about how intense final year can get until you are in the thick of it. You always hear people say “it flies by” or “just stay on top of your deadlines,” but when you are juggling a dissertation, multiple assignments, maybe a part-time job, and the constant pressure of your future hanging over your head, it becomes more than just time management. It becomes survival.

For me, final year has been a weird mix of pride and panic. I am proud of how far I have come, but some days I feel like I am just trying to keep my head above water. There have been weeks where I barely left my room, where my anxiety made even opening an email feel like a task. Other times, I have felt so motivated I was writing for hours without stopping. The highs and lows are real.

One thing I have had to accept is that rest is not a reward—it is a requirement. You cannot pour from an empty cup. I used to feel guilty for taking breaks, but I learnt the hard way that burning out does not make the work better. I now make time for walks around campus, cooking proper meals, or even just watching a show without feeling like I am wasting time.

Talking to others helped too. I used to isolate myself when I was stressed, thinking no one else would understand, but I quickly realised everyone in final year is feeling it in some way. Whether it is late-night voice notes to friends or popping into the Hive for a chat, small moments of connection have helped me feel less alone.

Final year is hard. That is just the truth. But you do not have to pretend to be fine all the time. Ask for extensions if you need them. Speak to your lecturers. Use the university wellbeing services. You are not weak for needing support.

At the end of the day, you are doing your best—and that matters more than you think. You just have to tell yourself ___ at the end of the day: THAT DEGREE WILL BE WORTH IT!