Navigating Senior Year

Senior year is difficult. 

How challenging should I make my schedule? Where should I apply for college? Will I even get into college? College visits, SATs, ACT’s. I need more freedom… Senioritis… Graduation… Saying goodbye… Starting fresh. 

It’s a lot.

Navigating the turmoil of senior year can become overwhelming. There is such a mix of emotions. It’s no wonder that students (and parents) can get stressed out during this time. At the heart of the issue during this time, however, are two core questions that seniors are struggling with, that parents can help navigate them through. “Am I good enough to get into college?” and “Am I ready for the new challenges that college will bring?” 

Am I good enough?

Students have spent years preparing for what is going to happen this year. They are going to send out transcripts and test scores and essays...and they are waiting to hear if they are good enough to go to the place that they want to call home for the next four years. Some students have spent years dreaming of going to one particular school and, to them, it feels as though their life is riding on that one decision. As parents, we need to be that strong, reassuring presence that will let them know we are with them no matter what happens. Sure, they will be thrilled or devastated depending on what they hear, and we will be there to celebrate or to comfort and to be their rock.

Am I ready?

Once your child has received that acceptance letter, reality sets in. “This is really going to happen.” “I am about to be on my own.” As much as your student has been craving independence, there is undoubtedly some fear and trepidation lurking within them. “Will I be able to manage on my own? Will I make new friends? Can I do college work? What will life be like at home while I am gone?” These questions, and more, will be going through your student’s mind from time to time as they prepare to leave. Again, our job as adults is to reassure them that they are indeed ready, and that just because they are gone to college doesn’t mean we aren’t still available to offer support.

So, as parents, let’s try to take a deep breath and trust that our kids are ready for the challenges that lie ahead. There are going to be bumps in the road, but we will be there for our kids to help them navigate through them. It is time for us to let them know that “Yes, you are good enough”, and “Yes, you are ready.” Even if we aren’t.

Below are some articles that you might find helpful in regards to stress during the senior year:

12 Ways to Reduce Junior and Senior Year Stress
How to Lower Senior Year Stress
4 Tips for Less Stress Your Senior Year