When individuals think of their senior year of high school, many people think of one of the best years of their lives. It’s the end of a chapter, the end of childhood, and the beginning of adulthood. During this time, there are so many happy memories and “firsts.”
For me, it was completely different. My senior year of high school was by far my worst year of high school, if not the worst year overall. Due to many personal issues with relationships
and outside pressures, that lead to a lot of mental stress.Yet, it has completely changed my perspective on everything, and shaped me into the person I am today.
While this isn’t quite the normal “guide to,” I am here to help guide upcoming high schoolers through their senior year. It’s okay to be disappointed that senior year wasn’t what it was expected to be. I know I was, for sure.
So let’s get into it, in hopes that senior year will be everything that it is expected to be. In all honesty, the biggest thing is leaning on the people that value you. It can be a parent, teacher, best friend, extended family, counselors, truly anyone who has empathy and can understand. For me, I leaned on my parents. Honestly, without them I can’t even imagine what this year would have been like for me. They are truly my biggest supporters and will always be by my side through thick and thin. Seek support when you need it, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Next, enjoy the moment. Senior year is a time to make memories with friends and family. Attend school events, participate in activities, and savor these last moments before graduation. Times can be hard and stressful, but try to attend these events because once you graduate, there is no going back.
Stay positive, this year can be especially stressful. Seniors are applying for colleges and scholarships, while also pushing through their last semesters of high school, so life can get pretty distracting with senioritis kicking in. It is easy to feel overwhelmed when everything seems to be happening at once, but remember this is just one chapter of the journey. Take things one step at a time.
To continue, maintain a healthy balance between academics, extracurricular activities, and social life. Don’t burn yourself out trying to do everything perfectly. It’s ok to take breaks and take time to recharge. Prioritize what really matters to you, and don’t compare your path to others, everyone’s journey is different.
Finally, celebrate, take time to celebrate the huge accomplishments and achievements along the way. People have worked so hard to get where they are, so enjoy the journey. Make memories, cherish your friendships, and appreciate how far you have come. Be proud of yourself and look forward to what is ahead.
