Students often reach their decline in motivation around the second semester of their senior year. Less and less energy is put into educational work; most of the time, it takes a toll on students’ overall performance. Although it may feel like just a stereotype, it’s a serious issue that can only hinder students from a clear future. Some symptoms include not caring about grades, lack of attendance, no effort into schoolwork, etc. Students at San Dimas have been feeling the pressure rise

“I definitely didn’t think senioritis would have hit me as early as it did. I kinda reminded myself that I have to get through to graduate. I’m a bad procrastinator, I haven’t been treating it“ says senior Olivia Romero amid her procrastination struggle.       

Senioritis can be caused by a multitude of things. The fear of moving on from high school is the usual case. But overachievement in classes also happens to be common. When one realizes that they have done enough their whole high school career, they can become burned out or satisfied enough to stop putting in the work. The anticipation of getting into college can also cause seniors to stop working for the present and keep their eyes on the end goal. With this end-goal mindset, students forget to keep working for this future in the now rather than keep consistency.

So how does one do away with this unnerving virus of the senior stalling? Some of the Senior Saints have a few ideas.

“I think just consulting with your teachers is good I guess. I mean it’s a way to stop getting off track at least.” suggests senior Billy Pegadiotes, who considers senioritis to be quite difficult in his own life.

 Senior Beatrice See also proposes to “Dont have it in the first place.” Pretty straight forward.

“But one of the top tips for doing away with senioritis is setting goals. Setting goals is not only a good habit to adapt within the course of your everyday life, but it helps one keep their eyes on the bigger picture and stay sane on their course toward a bright future. Start with the simple and small achievements. Make sure to finish that homework of the week and find time to make a to-do list to keep everything organized. 

Additionally, accepting these subsiding feelings of hesitation and knowing that this is a normal feeling amongst your peers is a good first way to look at it. Everybody has their academic struggles, even the most perfect scholars. Giving oneself space to breathe and adjust to a better routine allows stress to become less of a factor in senioritis.

Although it sounds cliche, savoring this last year of high school can help encapsulate the importance of what needs to be done. Spend time with family and friends, tell teachers how much they are appreciated, and enjoy the last couple of months as a senior. As heartbreaking as it sounds, the end of a significant stage of life is coming near. Don’t let it slip past with the procrastinating and stress surrounded by academics. Take a breather to let loose and celebrate all that has been accomplished.