Combating Senioritis

Seniors, I TOTALLY get it. Your applications are sent, your acceptances are rolling in. The days are getting shorter in these approaching winter months, and the internet (along with our beloved social media platforms) stay active. Maybe, you feel as though the most challenging part of your senior year is over, however this is far from true. Losing motivation in finishing your school year on a strong note can prove to be the most dangerous thing you can do, as it lies with many hidden risks.

Maybe you’ve got the case of Senioritis, which is totally normal. Many students in your grade are feeling the same way as well. However, putting the pencil down in notetaking and closing the books is not the way to finish your school year after college application season. Many may tell you to simply “not be lazy”, and although the advice may be true to some, it isn’t necessarily helpful. Here is a list of things you can do to combat your Senioritis, and finish your last year of high school on a strong note.

Keep The Same Pace:

It is easier to continue at the pace you are currently on then stopping and starting again. While it is important to rest it is also important to remember not to lose your momentum with your current level of activity. Continuing to study for your exams, going out to practice extra for your sports team, or volunteering some additional hours wherever you volunteer, can help combat Senioritis. Keeping good habits active through your senior year will help in your transition into college as well. You want to make sure you have good habits when starting in the next chapter of your life.

Set Some Goals:

Setting a list of realistic goals is an awesome spark to fueling some motivation. These goals do not have to be big. Academically they can be as simple as “ maintain your 3.5 GPA“, or “ apply for Mu Alpha Theta”. Your goals can also be extracurricular related, such as “ win first place in my event of a track meet” or “participate in my school's chess tournament”. Remember to prioritize basic responsibilities that are important to YOU and your growth as a student and person, even if it means that colleges won’t see what you’re doing.

Continue To Stay Organized:

Staying organized with your plan of action in completing your goals is crucial. Put your plans on paper, and chronologically organize them. If you haven’t already by an agenda or calendar, or set up a virtual reminders list. Having it noted down will help in holding yourself accountable for completing the steps towards your goals. Jot down all deadlines for school assignments and exam dates up to the end of the year. List club meetings, event dates and other obligations you have as well. Next organize blocks of times you will have for studying, training, organizing and practicing. Don’t forget to assign yourself self-care times as well! You want to avoid a burnout.

Surround Yourself With Motivated Peers:

After all, it’s called Senioritis for a REASON! Senioritis is definitely contagious, and surrounding yourself with unmotivated peers won’t help your own lack of motivation. Encourage your friends with study hangouts, workout sessions and with starting new projects together. Not only does it strengthen good habits, but it’s the perfect bonding experience!

Don’t Forget to Continue Your Application Process:

Remember, your college application journey doesn’t end when you press “send” on your last application, there are plenty of other things you can do in order to assure that your journey proves to be successful. Take some time to apply to some safety schools! Many local colleges waive application fees, so use that to your advantage. Apply to a few that you can add to your college list in case things don’t go as planned. Also, take some time to apply for some scholarships! Check out our article on 9 Easy Search Steps for Discovering Scholarships With Google, or check out some of our Niche scholarships right here! There are plenty of scholarship opportunities, all it takes is a little time and effort!

Although you may believe that the hardest part of your senior year lied in the fall, it is actually as you approach the end. Knowing how to combat your new lack of motivation effectively can help you avoid the traps of Senioritis.

featured on Niche Social.