Surviving as a High School Senior

Having recently completed my twelve-year career as a "school kid," I have experiences as a high school senior fresh in my mind. Senior year is many things at many times. The end is near for you and your classmates, you have more freedoms and respect on campus, and future plans of work and attending college loom ever closer. Take some candid advice from a recent graduate: make your last high school year one to remember.

Lesson 1: Avoiding "Senioritis" can be tricky
For most of my friends the feeling settled in the pits of their stomachs the instant homecoming week arrived. You are anxious to move on, to be done with your classes and bid farewell to old grudges. I only caught the fever during second semester, but any high school attendees reading know the feeling well. Basically you have an itch that can't be scratched until you walk across the stage and clutch your diploma. Remember that your last year is one to treasure. Believe me, the last months truly are a blur, even if you keep yourself busy with clubs, schoolwork, jobs, and prom preparations. The end will come soon enough. Until then stay focused on your friends and the teachers who helped you along the way.

Lesson 2: Don't be afraid to ask for help
If you plan on continuing your education at a college, more likely than not your counselors advised you to get started during your junior year. Perhaps you feel hesitant about talking to your parents and friends about where you want to go, or maybe you still have not given it any solid thought. The pressures of taking required entrance exams, filling out application forms, and spending months sorting out your financial work are far to big of decisions to go them alone. Even if you schedule everything out in order, college plans still tend to feel overwhelming. Get those you love close to your decisions. It's alright if you do not know what major to go for; start by looking at brochures and web sites of potential schools. Just don't go it alone.

Lesson 3: You're on top...start acting like it!
Let's face it: stepping into the school as a senior is a great feeling. You've made it through eleven years of work and fun with only two semesters left. Just because you can strut your stuff as a leader doesn't give you the right to stop being a role model. Whether you see it first-hand or not, underclassmen do respect and follow the examples of the seniors. Take you tasks with modesty. Sure, relish in the benefits of off-campus dining and of getting off the hook left and right with teachers you have a real connection with - just don't lose focus. You represent your school the most in both academics, sports, and clubs as senior leaders. Leave your mark as someone younger students strive to be when their final school days roll around.

There is much more to look forward to and confront during your senior year then the preceding list. Hey, what's life without a little surprise? If you ever feel overwhelmed take slow, deep breaths and know that the normal routine of your school life will come to a halt eventually. Until that day, however, be the best you can for your friends, your school, and those who care about your future.