A drastic change for second semester seniors

During the first semester of senior year, many students are busy with massive amounts of school work, tough AP classes and lengthy college applications. However, once second semester rolls around, things begin to change.
When AP testing ends and college acceptance letters are received, many seniors’ attitude towards high school undergoes a dramatic change.
Students that were once focused and hard-working become distracted by all of the changes associated with graduating from high school.
Last year, former senior Kilie Engelhardt had trouble staying motivated during the final stretch of high school.
“First semester, my teachers actually gave out lots homework,” Engelhardt said. “But now that AP testing is over, we have nothing left to do. I am bored in every class.”
Former senior Malika Wilkins also had an incredibly difficult time staying on task during second semester.
“During the first semester, I was more motivated,” Wilkins said. “But once second semester started, I could not wait to get out of school.”
Wilkins’ grades began to slip at the end of the year because she had trouble focusing on school work with all the approaching changes.
“All I can think about is my friends and college and the fact that Grad Night might be the last time I get to see everyone,” Wilkins said. “It is actually really stressful to just pack up and leave everything after being here for so long.”
Counselor Catherine Pereira understands the stress that Wilkins was feeling.
“I have seen students who may not be ready to move away and are sabotaging their chances to graduate,” Pereira said. “Anxiety and stress kick in around [the end of the year] because graduation brings about change.”
Former senior Jake Lundin agreed that it is difficult to stay focused and motivated during the second semester of senior year, especially when one already has solid post-graduation plans.
“I am going to Chico State next year,” Lundin said in May. “The fact that I have already been accepted into college makes the end of high school feel pointless.”
Even though Lundin himself had a hard time staying motivated, he learned from his mistakes and offered some words of advice to future second semester seniors.
“Good grades give you access to more financial aid and better grants for college,” Lundin said. “So even though it may not feel like it, those final grades really do count.”
Head counselor Courtenay Tessler also believes that it is important for seniors to remember that, even after they have been accepted into college, acceptance is purely conditional.
“If seniors do not maintain their GPA or get D grades [or lower], the colleges rescind their admission,” Tessler said. “It seems rather foolish to work 13 plus years towards a goal and then sabotage it during the final semester of senior year.”
Tessler believes that the end of senior year is not only a time to focus on academics, but also other important aspects in life.
“Seniors need to focus on the end result and their long-term goals,” Tessler said. “It is the time to enjoy friendships, enjoy families, and enjoy the last time you get free public education. It is a moment in time that will be a highlight of your life when you look back on your memories. Cherish it, because it will never happen again.”