Senior Tips for the Summer!

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As the year comes to a close, a new transition begins. Each student takes a step forward in their high school career, getting closer to the finish line–graduation. Anyone can recognize that high school becomes more rigorous with time, as more stress-inducing factors increase the heavy weight on our shoulders. As we get older, we will experience the harsh reality of final exams, IA’s, college applications, and much more.

With all of these different slumps to overcome, it’s easy to find oneself struggling. Either to maintain a clear balance between social and academic lives, or to prevent burnout from starting– transitioning within high school is inevitably a tough battle. However, senior Arden Haas states that within these hardships, it is important to “Give yourself grace and make mistakes”. Like any other school, academics at SFS can get highly tense and demanding at times. As Arden says, it is crucial to find a clear balance of social and academic lives, while also acknowledging that we are not perfect. Rather than being too engrossed in academics and straight 7’s, it is important to step back and take a breather at times.

Listening to our bodies, both our physical and mental state is so significant in preventing risks of burnout and other possible detrimental effects. However, when and if burnout does occur, and schoolwork becomes too overbearing at times, don’t forget that there are so many resources available to help support you. Your friends, trusted adults, online sources, etc—you are never alone. Find what recharges and energizes your body and brain—if that means taking more naps, go for it. Each student has different ways of relaxation and stress management, so find what works best for you.

Irene Cho, also a senior, recommends all students to “take advantage of the opportunities that SFS has to offer”. No matter what grade you may be in, exploring the diverse possibilities our school presents is important for every year of your high school career. Try out for new sports, pursue your passions and interests– make these long 4 years of high school last. Arden also exclaims, “Don't be afraid to mess up and it's never too late to start a new sport or club if you want to.” Students shouldn't feel they're forcing themselves within their student lives, instead,their student lives should be oriented based on the student. Make your school career what you want it to be, and try not to feel pressurizing standards to “fit in” with others around you. Each student is unique as an individual, their HS experiences should and will be too.

It's true that as we transition into our new grades, there will be plenty of ups and downs we must overpass. However, taking the advice provided by the seniors, discovering the joy in the high school experience, and spending it to the fullest are crucial. So as this school year comes to a close, take these tips into consideration– and feel less fear of the rising difficulties of HS that are to come.