1. Stay Calm
Though one aspect of your life may be ending, there are multiple opportunities outside of life other than just school. During the year you may be preparing for college, tech school, or a full time job. Your first instinct may be utter panic at the thought of applying to colleges or even just graduating. But remember that the past four years you have been working to better yourself for the real world. Take a deep breath and relax, know that your last year doesn’t mean the end of your growth, just the end of one sliver of your life.
2. Participate In Some Extracurriculars
Don’t be afraid to join the track team or audition for the school play. Putting yourself out there could be helpful in realizing what you want to do with your life. You may never know you’re good at basketball or playing the clarinet until you try. Each activity you participate creates a new social environment to explore and make connections with.
3. Make Time For Yourself
This one is obvious, but the importance of sometimes focusing on yourself can cause a significant impact in life. So relax, binge on that Netflix show you wanted to watch, cook for yourself, take a deep breath and acknowledge how far you’ve come. Gather your favorite blankets and encompass yourself in the comfort you deserve.
4. Travel...and not Just to Colleges
If you’re from a rural area, visit a city just to see what it feels like, and vise versa. Take a day and explore all of the options and opportunities available to you. Traveling can also let you escape from home and see what it may feel like to be on your own.
5. Thank Your Teachers
Give some credit to the adults that pushed and drove you to be the best that you can be. They put their own time and effort into giving you the education you need for the future. They stayed after school and tutored, and put countless hours into lesson plans, and faculty meetings. Knowing that they are appreciated can make a teacher’s day.
6. But Do Visit Colleges
If you plan on attending college after school, always visit. Every place is different, and it depends on what environment you want to surround yourself with. Even before applying, visiting should be first priority. So do your research and set up a visit to a college with your program in mind.
7. Make Time for Friends
This last year may be the last time you are with your friends for possibly years. Make this year memorable by staying close with the people you grew up with, they won’t always be there to help you in the real world. Go to the beach for the weekend, take a drive on spring break, remember that your friends are part of the reason why you made it this far.
8. Go To Homecoming
Whether you are fan of football or not, this game brings not only your class but the whole school together. The school spirit felt by this game will make you proud of the school you come from no matter if you win or lose.
9. Celebrate Graduation
Graduation may seem like the end, but take into account that it is also an achievement. You’ve completed four years of hard work and determination, and it's okay to move on from that. Cherish graduation and know that it may be the end of High School, but not the end of your life.
10. Enjoy It
Your Senior year is all about you and your class receiving their diplomas and becoming adults. Take each moment and memory and hold them close to your heart. Remember each person you meet holds a different perspective on the world. Being a senior does not only mean moving up, but taking leadership and moving on.
