How to Handle Senioritis

By Graciela Gonzalez Gallegos

The Centennialight

By the time senior year rolls around, students have spent thirteen years writing essays, taking exams, playing sports, being in clubs and whatever else they have on their plate. By the twelfth grade, a lack of motivation begins to creep its way in, especially because students are in the homestretch of graduation. This measure of indifference is better known as “senioritis”.

Many students experience this burnout, especially after PSAT tests, AP class exams, college applications, and the feeling of adulthood beginning to kick in. 

There’s so much anxiety, uncertainty, laziness, and excited feelings that go into the concept of Senioritis, especially because the “hard part” is done, so there’s not much motivation for the same 100 percent effort. But that doesn't mean it is impossible.

There are many simple ways to get seniors through this obstacle, and back on course for the short remainder of their time in school. One common tip is setting small goals. Instead of looking at it as an entire semester, breaking it up into smaller accomplishments, is a much better way for the semester to go smoothly.

The Stanford Graduate School of Business research shows that “breaking down large, daunting goals into smaller, manageable, and immediate sub-goals is more effective for long-term success, higher performance, and better morale.”

On top of that, another great way to keep pushing strong, is reminders of why the last couple of months of school still matter. Final grades affect scholarships, college acceptance rates, and even graduation requirements. In the end, the homestretch is what ties the entire thirteen years together.

Senior year is the year most students look forward to the most. It should be enjoyable, but it also important to finish strong, pushing through the hard times, to finally finish the thirteen years of hard work.