Find a quiet, peaceful place where you can be alone. Close your eyes and breathe in deeply through your nose. Hold for a count of three, and then breathe out through your mouth. Repeat this process until you feel your body relaxing and your mind clearing.

Imagine yourself in a graduation gown walking across the stage to receive your diploma. You shake hands with the college president, and as you walk off the stage you notice a video camera pointed at you. A reporter asks if she can interview you for a “graduation success story.” You agree. Think about how you would respond to her questions: “How are you feeling right now? What does this accomplishment mean to you? What explains your success? How did you stay motivated when the going got tough? How will your life change now that you have this degree?” The reporter thanks you for your time, and you walk back to your seat.