After nearly 12 long years of cramming for exams, straining extracurriculars and waking up at 7 a.m. every day, the last year of high school is often taken to reflect and make new memories. Senior year — especially the second semester — tends to be a bittersweet time of excitement and nostalgia. With college applications submitted, most students get the chance to relax and enjoy their last months of high school. 

Adults repeatedly advise living life to the fullest while one is young, but it is recognized that one’s senior year of high school is when most take full advantage of this recommendation. When asked about senior year, FHS history teacher David Rognas noted that the year goes by very quickly. Oftentimes, seniors have less stress in school because college requirements are finished so they take easier, more interesting classes. The stress of deadlines and college-related obligations is then replaced with pride of maturity. 

“It’s good to go through the feeling of like the top dog,” Rognas said. “Being the oldest kids and having that responsibility a little bit, to have people who look up to you a little bit more.”

When students are less stressed about school work, more time and energy can be put into the social aspect of high school. Between busy weekends and hangouts, many students use this time for introspection, finding it satisfying to think about their journey.

“I just think that it’s a good time for you to reflect on your experience and think about where you started and where you’re going and where you are and just to be able to take time to reflect on your growth throughout high school,” FHS senior Yash Saswade said.

 However, with a drastic change in priorities, especially after such a mentally draining period due to college apps, motivation tends to run out. A common term for seniors to describe this change in focus is “senioritis.” It references the sudden lack of energy and stress over school as seniors begin having more fun during the school year. Senioritis is characterized by severe burnout that strongly diminishes students’ academic drive and explains why students deem it more important to cherish time with their school friends and make a few last memories before inevitably parting ways.

“Spend your time doing whatever you wanna do and do whatever you want because that’s just the best way to use your last few months here,” FHS senior Simran Kaur said. “I’m just looking forward to spending these last few months with my friends before we go to college.”  

During the end of high school, the epiphany that a familiar and comfortable routine is so quickly coming to an end prompts students to strengthen their relationships and make as many memories as they can before graduation. Students can also enjoy long-promised events together such as Senior Ditch Day and Senior Prom.

The second semester of senior year is special to a lot of people due to its lower stress levels in comparison to other periods of high school. This lower stress allows the capacity for students to spend their time strengthening friendships and making memories before each person goes on their own path after graduation.