senior year stress

- Jane Statchen -

I didn’t realize until I got here how weird senior year would be. I’m not used to writing about myself. After drafting my 10th college admissions essay trying to convey all the most impressive parts of who I am in 500 words or less, I feel a little strange. This isn't the only strange part of senior year, though, and the pandemic only serves to add to the unique stress and uncertainty that high school students across the world are experiencing right now. 

Our school situation is all over the place, some schools are testing out hybrid models, some have tried opening, and many have transitioned fully online. Add to that the uncertainty of rising COVID cases, which might upend whatever model you’re currently figuring out how to navigate. All of this makes for a much more confusing process when we are unable to talk with guidance counselors, attend college visits, or get in-person support from teachers. For me it has been very helpful to access online resources about the college admissions process; from essay writing, to virtual campus visits, to help with the common app, there’s a lot of support and advice that you can gain from researching college admissions remotely.

Another problem exacerbated by online school is simply distraction. It can be pretty hard to stare at a computer screen all day. Often during my classes I find myself inadvertently zoning out or scrolling through Twitter, where -- ironically -- I’ll see other people encouraging my distraction by talking about similar experiences with online school. 

All of this senior year stress and pandemic uncertainty can easily take its toll on your mental health. In addition to academic resources, it's important to seek out mental health support when you need it. Academic pressure can feel overwhelming, but remember to set aside time every day to destress. This can be especially tough right now given we can’t see friends as much, but keeping in touch virtually can be really helpful. Or if spending too much time on a screen is your problem, maybe consider a social media detox -- delete your most-abused apps for a week or so. And I hate when my mom tells me this, but it actually does help to take a walk now and again. 

Members of the graduating class of 2021 are in the unique position of trying to decide their next step in life while basically stuck in their bedrooms. It’s not just about a canceled prom anymore -- it’s about struggling to even take the SAT. So take a deep breath, be good to yourself, and know that you’re not alone.