Senioritis Has No Hold On You

Reported By: Ellaynah Brown

Photographed By: Yolanda Diaz

“Senioritis” describes the general feeling of anticipation seniors experience as graduation draws closer. And as graduation approaches, senioritis has undoubtedly begun to creep in for George Fox University’s (GFU) expectant seniors.

  GFU senior Kaleb Miller said, “I think that the main feelings I have are excited for graduation and to move on to another part of my life, but also anxious and pressured to finish well.” 

Feelings of anxiety, exhaustion, denial, and excitement seemed to be the trending emotions surrounding this phase of their college career.

“I love school and the environment at GFU, don’t get me wrong, but I’m just exhausted all the time— working full time and going to school full time and worrying about what comes next. I’m just tired,” said senior Cassidy Wecker. 

Miller noted that  he started losing motivation as early as week four of the spring semester: “All of my classes started into the first topics and my first assignments were all due about the same time, and I had thoughts of ‘I can't wait until I'm graduated and don't have to have weeks like this,’” he said.

Coping with the tiredness and impatience is an important step in getting to the finish line. “Please do not bottle up those feelings until the finish line because then you won't be able to enjoy the end to the fullest,” said senior Emma Gomes, reminding her fellow graduates they are not alone. “We are all anxious and excited to be done and to celebrate what we have achieved here.”

Senior Jessalyn Lim is “taking it one step at a time and letting each day unfold as it will.” She feels it is important to be kind to yourself and understand that there is a lot going on. Lim encourages her classmates to “stay present and consistent with who or what you have now. Worry adds no benefit to your life, so work hard, love well, and finish strong!”

College undoubtedly brings both growth and hardship. Making it through these four years took courage and tenacity, and seniors should feel proud of all they have accomplished. 

From one senior to another: “You’re almost done! Enjoy your time here while you have it, ask questions, have deep conversations, sleep in, have fun, and congratulations!” said Wecker.