THE ECHO

by Henry Whittle

This senior year has been four years in the making.

From the moment I entered high school, I began elaborately planning my escape to be as smooth and painless as possible. It’s too late for incoming seniors, but for my soon-to-be junior and sophomore friends, I offer you my war plan for surviving senioritis.

First off, the most common regret I hear from other seniors is not taking Government and Economics over the summer. You might think it’s just one period being used up, but it’s more valuable than you realize. Doing things you feel like you shouldn’t have to do anymore is the number one cause of senioritis (and yes, that’s a medical fact—sort of).

Second, unless you absolutely need them to stand out for a specific school or major, do not—I repeat, DO NOT—take any AP classes. Preparing for and taking AP exams is the last thing you want to be doing, especially after you’ve already committed to a college. Because more than anything, by the end of the first semester, you’ll just want to leave.

Third, and perhaps my biggest and most underrated piece of advice, consider doing work-based learning or cadet teaching. You’ll need to provide your own transportation, which might not be an option for everyone. However, it gives you three whole periods of the day where you’re free from the shackles of high school. It reduces your time at the high school from seven periods to only a whopping four. Also, side bar, I feel this goes without saying but don’t forget for include a class or to that’s just something you’re passionate about *cough cough* like maybe newspaper *cough cough.* Plus, attendance is based on the hours you’re present. The minimum is ten hours per week, so if you reach that, you could technically score yourself a half day off. That’s why I consider it my biggest weapon in fighting off senioritis.

Finally, I must confess: I’ve lied a bit in this column. My real biggest piece of advice is this, enjoy it while it lasts. You’ll likely get reflective and nostalgic in your final weeks. You’ll remember things as better than they were, and senioritis will make some things feel worse than they are. But taking the good with the bad, and appreciating every part of this year, is what will truly help you survive senioritis.

Now, godspeed, soldier—and give your senior year hell.