Senioritis: Terminal Semester Syndrome

Anna Hsia

At the time of writing this piece, there are 91 days until the end of the semester.

Most students may not be counting down, but seniors are... to commencement and graduation! 

Not only are seniors counting down the days, but many are experiencing “senioritis.” Southern New Hampshire University describes it as “a common affliction describing the lack of motivation felt by students who are reaching the end of their courses.”   

Business major Hayden Stone says that senioritis means “worrying more about just passing a class than worrying about getting an A.”  

For Education major Jackson Huddleson, it looks like, “not [wanting] to do my readings or take my time with assignments and [blowing] them off until the day they are due, unlike in previous years where I would work ahead.”   

Senioritis can be more than just procrastination; it can also feel like burnout.  

Sister Innocence Wilkins has been experiencing academic pressure due to prolonging her studies. To combat this pressure, she is enrolled in two Art classes this semester, which has helped her restore balance.

Similarly, Psychology major Nadia Roebuck has been feeling tired and burned out but is determined to finish strong. “You haven’t completed your degree yet,” she said, and reminds herself that she “needs to finish strong and keep going.”  

For some students, the idea that college is ending feels surreal. 

“It doesn’t feel real,” said Psychology major Darby Johnson. Johnson thrives on the structure of academia and feels overwhelmed with what comes next. She has been looking into post-baccalaureate programs at various universities.  

Others want to finish college on a high note. English major Abby Dacombe has found herself needing to “catch” herself to avoid skipping class. Last semester was her strongest academic semester yet, and she is determined to stay disciplined. Her advice to first-year students is “to go to class and go to your professor’s office hours. They are here for a reason.”   

One of the biggest questions seniors get asked is what comes after graduation. Roebuck plans to apply to officer candidate school for the Navy, while also looking for a job as a mental health technician. If she is accepted, the Navy will help fund her next part of her education.  

Huddleson is preparing to enter the classroom as a teacher. He is excited “to put this chapter of my life to rest,” and looks forward to inspiring the next generation to pursue higher education.  

When asked what advice they would give first-year students, the answers were simple: work hard, go to class, take advantage of everything the Mount has to offer. Have fun, but do not sacrifice long-term goals for short term fun, and make sure you are attentive in class. Showing a bit of interest goes a long way.