Combating Senioritis: Advice from Alumni

A girl taking a breath while completing schoolwork. Photo from https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-in-white-shirt-with-brown-wooden-frame-4769486/.

We have finally made it to Spring semester, which means seniors are that much closer to finally graduating. However, being so close to the graduation often alludes to another less exciting phenomenon: Senioritis. 

The constant grind of churning out essays, studying for exams and reading endless textbook passages can take quite a toll on students, particularly after a long four years of working toward a degree. When Senioritis strikes students might find themselves having difficulty making it to class on time, feeling more apathetic toward school work or generally neglecting everyday obligations. 

“I kept reminding myself that while I love college, my last semester had to be as good as I could make it, so I tried my best to keep a healthy and positive mindset throughout,” said Seton Hill English alum Kaitlyn Marsh. “We’re always told that the ‘real’ world is way harder. In some ways it is, other ways it’s easier. Pay your bills before anything else, but also keep a hobby. Working and making money are important, but you won’t get anywhere if you don’t take care of yourself and your mental health.”

Many college students struggle with Senioritis not only because of an academic workload, but because they are experiencing increased stress and anxiety levels surrounding the finality of upcoming debt, finding a job or applying to graduate schools. Oftentimes, these worries can have a tendency to take priority over concerns about when the next homework assignment is due. 

“Try not to put too much pressure on yourself because realistically most people don’t find their career job right out of college. It takes time and requires a lot of patience. In the meantime do what you love and throw other people’s opinions out the window because you only get one shot at life, so make it a good one,” said Seton Hill Musical Theater alum Cassawndra Brugos. 

In other words, one realistic way to combat Senioritis is for students to ensure that they are taking time for themselves and engaging in activities that they enjoy. Journaling and meditation can offer temporary reprieve from the constant whirlwind of worries that often accompany the final semester of college, giving students a feasible way to collect their thoughts. 

Ultimately, taking responsibilities one day at a time is a great way to begin combating Senioritis. Make a to-do list in order to stay organized and be able to visually discern which tasks might take priority over others in a given moment. Don’t forget to write in some rewarding activities for yourself as well!

“My advice for seniors going into their last semester is to really give it your all and do not give up. It can seem hard, but in the end, you will never feel more proud of yourself holding your degree, going into your first real job! It is the best feeling in the world,” said Seton Hill Communication alum Brittaney Pietrangelo.

Published by: Mikaela Fitzpatrick