After a much-needed break, school is unfortunately back in session. The six hours filled with sticky seats, snobby students and soggy snacks managed to wither its way into our lives once more. This scenario is luckily, the last of its kind for both high school and college seniors.
Since college applications are done and out of the way–for now– it’s time to focus on what I like to call the filler period, or second semester. Second semester is when the all too familiar, yet tragic, epidemic spreads through campus, senioritis.
Senioritis is the chronic disease that possesses students in their last year, leaving them absolutely incapable of completing assignments, showing up, or getting dressed.
As a second-semester high school senior, I can admit–rather grudgingly– that senioritis played a leading role in my academic decline. With the stress of college applications and acceptances and applying to what seems like every scholarship, I found myself, inevitably, slacking off. Although it may seem like last semester is the last thing on your mind right now, I made the most of it, without senioritis totally getting in the way. Here’s how:
- Writing: I took up journaling. I started to write down my feelings, both good and bad. I didn’t censor anything for grammar or conciseness. I just wrote. Being able to jot down my stream of consciousness allowed me to keep an open mind and know what I was doing.
- Planning: Similar to journaling, planning is incredibly important to organize your events and due dates. With a planner, you’re aware of what is to come. Planning and devising a weekly schedule alleviated last-minute cramming.Let’s be honest, indulging in colored pens, markers and post-it notes makes planning soo worth it.
- Avoid multi-tasking: I know it seems easy to watch the Gilmore Girls revival while writing your senior thesis, but trust me, it doesn’t lead to anything productive. By focusing on one thing at a time, I found myself completing assignments much quicker. My mind wasn’t so overworked and I felt my work was much better.
- Exercise: Whether it’s running, yoga or Zumba, exercise is clearly a stress reliever (not to mention fun). Working out allowed me to release tension and have at least one hour to myself. I’m not a fitness guru, but I do know that post-workout feeling is better than any other.
It’s important to organize your thoughts and enjoy your last moments on campus, they’re supposed to be the best ones yet. Make the most of it and most importantly, stay healthy.
