In the last few months of senior year, a virus seems to spread through the hallways; it’s known as senioritis. This contagious feeling leaves students tired, distracted, and unmotivated just when they need to be most focused.
Senioritis is more than just a catchy phrase; it’s a widespread experience affecting students across the country, and it has touched down at HHS. The stakes are high: slipping grades can jeopardize scholarships, college admissions, and the sense of accomplishment earned over years of hard work.
“I used to always be on top of all of my assignments, but lately, it’s like I can’t even get up to take some notes,” Senior Payton Clark said. “I always find myself taking a nap to pretend the work doesn’t exist.”
Students like Payton have been staying after school for tutoring to help them stay on track, but they feel as though the workload has gone too far.
Interestingly, the phenomenon often kicks in most strongly during the final semester, as the cap and gown come into view. Senior Santiago Storey shared his internal experience.
“For some reason, the moment second semester comes around, my motivation stays behind with Christmas break,” Storey said. “It’s hard to pick myself back up after a long pause.”
A survey conducted by the Omniscient reveals that nearly 78% of high school seniors report a significant drop in motivation during their last semester.
“Sometimes I just want to relax and enjoy my last months,” Storey said. “But I know I can’t let my work slide.”
School counselors often find themselves in the middle of the emotional landscape nearing graduation. Mrs. Cluts, a counselor at Hancock, frequently addresses this with her students.
“I think it is a real feeling that many seniors feel.” Mrs. Cluts expressed, “I definitely felt it in my senior year of high school, so I’m trying my best to be here for the students.”
She recognizes that the feeling of senioritis is a common experience for students and brainstorms how to boost their spirits.
A few weeks ago, our principal, Mr. Williams, brought his dog in for the students to meet him. Though his intention was for students to meet his dog, it also brought a sense of relief through the school. Mrs. Cluts enjoyed the experience. “I loved it when Mr. Williams brought his dog–maybe he could do that more often for morale?”
Sometimes a break from work is less about ‘doing nothing’ and more about a wagging tail reminding you you’re almost done.
“I believe each student should finish the year with integrity,” expressed Mr. Williams. “It’s a hard final stretch, but perseverance is stronger than the hardship, and I know our students can finish strong.”
