As the school year inches closer to graduation day, a condition unique to high school seniors begins to show: Senioritis. While this term may be funny, it’s a real and often overwhelming feeling that many seniors experience during their final semester of high school.
Identified by a sudden drop in motivation, increased procrastination, and a general sense of detachment towards schoolwork, Senioritis affects students from all high schools. According to the American Psychological Association, symptoms can include fatigue, irritability, and a longing for college. “Senioritis feels like a mix of excitement for the future and a lack of motivation for the present,” said senior Mia Gutierrez-Villarreal. “It is obvious when I have Senioritis. I start procrastinating, losing focus, or caring less about my schoolwork.”
Experts think that Senioritis is a combination of a few factors: senior year excitement, college applications, and the combined years of stress and hard work. As students look forward to prom, graduation, and summer plans, the pressure of maintaining good grades can feel like a burden.
Despite how it might feel, the consequences of Senioritis can be deeply impactful. Colleges often request final transcripts, meaning that slacking off in the final stretch can jeopardize acceptance letters or scholarships. So, how can seniors overcome Senioritis? Students have suggested a variety of strategies:
- Forcing yourself put your attitude aside and put school first
- Get your parents to hold you accountable
- Do the bare minimum such as going to class and paying attention
- Get involved in clubs
As graduation approaches, it’s important for seniors to find their motivation again. “I think it’s important for seniors to find motivation even if they have Senioritis,” said senior Kathleen Ortiz-Campos. “I think it’s important because if they’re not able to find motivation, then it could keep a senior from graduating.”
In the end, Senioritis may simply be an unavoidable ailment, but it’s a passing one. With determination, planning, and a supportive community, seniors can overcome the challenges that come with the final stretch of their high school journey. “What keeps me going to school is my attendance,” said senior Adi Gardner. “I go to school for credits and to keep my grade up for colleges so they don’t revoke my scholarship.”
As we approach the end of the school year, it’s important to keep pushing towards the exciting milestone of graduation. Do not let senioritis get the best of you. This is the final stretch, a time filled with both anticipation and responsibility. Don’t forget, the effort you put in now will impact your future opportunities. Whether you are heading to college, entering the workforce, or exploring other paths. Engage fully in your classes, find joy in the memories you are creating, while also focusing on the tasks at hand. The finish line is in sight, and every ounce of determination you muster will pay off.
