What is senioritis? It is a term used to describe the phenomenon where high school or college seniors become less motivated, focused or engaged in their academic work as they are near graduation. It typically manifests in the second semester of senior year when students may feel like they’ve already achieved their goals, like getting into college or completing graduation requirements, leading to a decline in effort. Symptoms can include procrastination, skipping classes, reduced enthusiasm for assignments, and a general lack of interest in schoolwork.
Senioritis can have a significant impact on those around a student who is experiencing this. For peers, it may result in an increasing workload of additional responsibilities in group projects when the senioritis-affected student fails to contribute. This can cause frustration and tension within the group, as some may feel they are carrying the weight of others’ lack of effort. Teachers are also affected, as they may need to put in extra time and energy to motive and support students who are no longer fully engaged. In the long run, senioritis can diminish the overall classroom dynamic, as it leads to a decrease in both participation and academic performance.
To prevent senioritis: stay focused by setting personal goals, staying organized, and maintaining a balanced routine. Engage with your studies, seek support from teachers and peers, and take breaks to avoid burnout while keeping a positive mindset towards finishing strong.
