My boyfriend and I have been together for over a year and prior to coming to college we decided to try long distance. Now we’re a month into school, we rarely talk and when we do we’re arguing. I don’t want to break up, but this is getting to be too much stress. 

Well first things first, welcome to UNC Wilmington! Believe it or not, there are more people in your situation than you probably think. My freshman year, I was dating a guy from high school and it worked for a while, but instead of being honest with ourselves about the situation, we wound up hating each other. People grow, circumstances change and that is okay. College is a lot to handle by itself, so do not restrain yourself to a potentially toxic relationship out of fear. This is the perfect time in your life to acknowledge the importance of choosing yourself over others. At face value, that may seem like I am promoting selfishness when it is really all about self care. You are your longest-term commitment and you should treat yourself that way. Let him go, girl. Spend this time getting to know yourself and the guys will flock when the time is right.

xoxo,

Sally Seahawk

For the past three years I have been an organized student with a lot of initiative. Now that I am a senior, I have little to no motivation to do anything. How do I push myself to finish strong? 

Whew, child! “Senioritis” is upon us and it looks like you have got it bad. Spending your entire life in school is exhausting no matter how great of a student you are. You have come so far and you deserve to be applauded for that, but it would be unfortunate for you to fumble the bag this close to the finish line. Whether it be waking up a little earlier or staying at the library an hour or two longer, do what you need to do to refocus yourself. This happens to the best of us, but do not worry: you will get through this. Do not forget to register for graduation!

xoxo,

Sally Seahawk

My roommate from last year is currently studying abroad and my new roommate is a complete and total slob. How do I establish boundaries and rules within our household?

Roommate situations are hard. Finding a good roommate is like finding a diamond in the rough. The best way to resolve an issue like this before it blows into a full blown conflict would be to address it immediately. Let your roommate know that you are not cleaning up after them and that it is time for them to start taking responsibility for their mess (literally and figuratively). If you are uncomfortable having a one on one conversation like that, then you should get in contact with your RA and ask them about having a community standards meeting. This way everyone is on the same page and there is an unbiased witness. Confrontation is very uncomfortable, but it is a part of life. There is no growth in comfort. Go get them!       

xoxo,

Sally Seahawk