As the school year nears its end, seniors begin to dwell in their fears, whether it be feeling unprepared for the real world or financial stress, as the thought of making critical choices can be overwhelming for individuals navigating the transition from school to the next phase of their lives. According to a study made by an educational information website called K-12 Dive, only 30% of students feel that high school has prepared them for life after graduation.
Seniors shared the common fear of feeling confused or lost about their post-graduation plans, confused with life-defining decisions that can leave them flustered and uncertain about the path they want to pursue.
“I’m not sure what path would be the best for me whether it be continuing school or getting a job and trying to get promoted to where I’m paid enough to support my family and thinking that I have to make that decision soon makes me nervous,” said senior Gabriel Rodriguez.
Another common fear among the seniors is not having enough credits to graduate and walk the stage with their class. The alternative to graduating later is not as rewarding or satisfying.
“I’ve always struggled with my grades and still do, but now that grades are almost due I start to think about me not walking the stage and if I have enough time to fix them,” said senior Elias Lopez.
One fear that’s also prevalent in students is the thought of having to provide and rely on themselves as they near adulthood rather than their parents who have been there for their whole life to guide them.
¨The thought of not being able to ask my parents to help with gas money or buy me food whenever I want makes me realize that I may not be able to enjoy the luxuries I did when they paid for things,¨ said senior Salvador Miramontes.
Many athletes fear not being offered to play their sports in college as the dream has been a childhood goal and something they have strived and put their all towards.
“I’ve always wanted to play college football and with the season coming to an end I hope I have the chance to continue playing and chasing my dream of playing in the pros,” said senior Donovan Romero.
Students expressed that they began to realize the same people they see every day, made many cherishable memories as well as grown as a person may not be in their lives as usual as they are accustomed to or in some cases never again at all.
“Thinking about not seeing my friends as often anymore or not getting told good morning by my favorite administrators makes me sad and dread the end of the year,” said senior Jocelyn Ipina.
Senior year marks a time of both excitement and trepidation for students as they navigate what should be the time of their lives while grappling with significant decisions that will shape their future. Balancing the thrill of new experiences with the weight of life-altering choices is a common challenge during this pivotal period.
