Senioritis: is it a myth? Some believe it is an excuse for high school seniors to justify the decline in their motivation and academic performance. Despite some dismissing the term, the general apathetic attitudes among seniors are prevalent and very real.

Symptoms of senioritis are variable. Most cases of senioritis tend to start after college applications and mid-year reports have been submitted. This entails a student failing to complete work, skipping class, and resenting taking and sometimes dropping all those hard classes originally used to impress colleges.

With graduation around the corner, many have lost the initial drive for the academic year.

“I’m so sick of being here,” senior Janice Lee said. “School has never felt more tedious and unforgiving, but I don’t care anymore.”

Although HHS seniors are ready to let go of all responsibilities, the academic performance during the spring semester is telling of a student’s worth ethic. A significant drop in grade and participation in the classroom will send a huge red flag to colleges who have admitted you. Each year, thousands of letters of rescindment are sent to students who have failed to maintain similar grades reflected on their transcript during the time of acceptance.

If you’re struggling with senioritis and feeling unmotivated, remember that there are only four more months of school left. Be mindful of the risks you’re taking by slacking off. You’ve come this far, and after three and a half years of hard work, it would be devastating if one semester of poor grades falsely represented your character.

If you’re having trouble keeping up with homework, make a checklist of tasks and assignments you need to accomplish for the day. Following through will rid you of stress and help you maintain focus in school.