Work smarter, not harder for senior year

By Janelle Trujillo '26

High school is a long journey, and junior year is often the most difficult mile. It is arguably the most stressful year in high school.

You just finished your capstone, played sports all year, and joined clubs to build your college resume. Suddenly, you have to figure out your future, manage a first job, and navigate the road after finally earning a driver's license. On top of all that, you still need a social life. I understand the struggle.

After managing those demands within just one school year, burnout is inevitable. The last thing you want is to make your senior year just as difficult.

As a senior who has been through it, I am here to help you make your senior year a victory lap. There are many ways to ensure burnout stays in junior year. Here is how to make your senior year better:

Tip 1: Create a balanced schedule
Creating a schedule that sets you up for success is vital. Burnout happens when you pack too much into your day. Senior year is the last opportunity to take classes you are interested in. Prioritize quality over quantity; do not put too much on your plate.

Take advantage of opportunities at WHS. "Take Mr. Danaher’s internship class. I was in a year-long internship that introduced me to so many opportunities. It doesn’t matter what you’re doing in the future; you learn valuable skills that you don’t learn in the classroom," said senior Ashlynn Vernile. Choose your classes wisely; your future self will thank you.

Tip 2: Prioritize free time
Make sure you have free time outside of school. Vernile emphasized the importance of finding balance. "I have to remind myself that I’m still a teenager. When you’re so stuck in schoolwork, you start to lose yourself. Give what you can give, but not all of you," Vernile said.

By all means, be an active student, but ensure you have time for friends and family. Go bowling, go on a shopping date, or go roller skating. Building your college portfolio is important, but so is maintaining your sanity.

Tip 3: Prepare for college applications early
Preparing for college applications before the fall is a great way to lessen the load. Start your Common App, book college tours, get a head start on your essay, and apply for scholarships.
Book college tours during spring break to get a true feel for the campuses. Sit down for 30 minutes a week throughout the summer to focus on your application. Applying for scholarships is also a great help, especially since some require essay submissions. Before heading out for the summer, ask teachers for letters of recommendation.

Senior Elijona Avdimetaj reminds juniors: "While you're still in the heat of things, do anything college-related in the summer or at least start it. You'd be surprised by how helpful it can be." Taking these small steps before senior year starts will make the transition much easier.

Create a schedule that works for you. Do not overwork yourself, take on work you are willing to complete, and do not forget to enjoy life. Set yourself up for success and end your high school journey on a peaceful note.

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