Senior year is the final chapter of high school before stepping into adulthood. It’s often hailed as a time of freedom and new beginnings. However along with the excitement comes a unique set of challenges and pressures that students must navigate. Many students find themselves juggling college applications, extracurricular activities, and the expectations of maintaining their grades.
College applications are one of the most stressful parts of senior year. They take time and a lot of energy. As a result, balancing demands can be overwhelming. Students face deadlines for essays, standardized test scores, and extracurricular commitments, which can add to the stress. Maintaining good grades is very important for getting into college. However, meeting deadlines and writing essays can make this difficult. Without effective strategies or outlets for stress relief, maintaining good grades becomes a challenging task.
Many seniors find themselves caught in the cycle of procrastination which can further heighten stress levels. All the high school seniors I spoke with agreed on one thing: Do not procrastinate.
MCHS ASB president Ariena Molina shared crucial advice for managing this stress.
“No matter what, don’t procrastinate. Start your applications early and set personal deadlines before the actual ones,” Molina said.
The strategy she explained was essential in helping her avoid procrastination and manage her responsibilities effectively.
While an article I read advises starting early and completing tasks ahead of deadlines to reduce stress and avoid missed opportunities, seniors face additional challenges beyond procrastination, such as managing the overwhelming pressure of college decisions, making it crucial to balance these pressures for maintaining mental health during this intense period.
Senior Karina Garcia, expressed the dilemma many face.
“In the beginning, I felt like there were definitely schools where my family wanted me to apply to, or my friends were applying to and that I wasn’t,” Garcia said.
This sentiment is common among high school seniors who often face stress and indecision due to pressures from family and peers. With thousands of colleges in the U.S. each catering to different individuals, it is essential to thoroughly research schools to ensure the best fit. By creating a personalized list of colleges that genuinely interest you, you can prioritize your own educational preferences and goals, recognizing that the ultimate choice affects your future.
Garcia also emphasized the importance of personal choice.
“It’s just my choice, and regardless of other people’s expectations, I’m just gonna go for what I believe will work best for me, “Garcia said.
Ultimately, while external pressures are common, it is crucial for students to prioritize their own preferences and aspirations when choosing a college. As Garcia highlighted, the decision should reflect personal goals and beliefs, ensuring the journey to college is fulfilling and aligned with future plans.
With the pressures of senior year, many high school students are actively seeking ways to manage stress and maintain their well-being. Some students have found relief in simple, everyday activities.
Senior Paola Sanchez shared her personal approach to managing stress during the college application process, emphasizing strategies that align with her unique needs and circumstances.
“What really helped me was listening to music and hanging out with my friends,” Sanchez said.
In agreement, Garcia noted that many seniors mentioned similar stress-relief methods, highlighting how these activities not only provide a necessary break from responsibilities but also offer moments of enjoyment and relaxation.
“I didn’t avoid stress, but a good strategy is to really plan ahead,” Sanchez said.
As seniors prepare to leave high school behind and embark on their college journeys, they leave valuable advice for those stepping into their shoes.
“It’ll work out in the end as long as you maintain positivity,” Garcia said
Sanchez emphasizes the importance of time management in her advice.
“Don’t procrastinate. Get started early,” Sanchez said.
Lastly, Molina provides a comforting sense of reassurance, sharing a positive note.
“Everything’s going to be good, so no need to worry about it,” Molina said.
By embracing these pieces of advice, rising seniors can confidently face their challenges with enthusiasm. This guidance helps them navigate their final year of high school and prepares them for the exciting journey ahead, empowering them to write their own success stories.
