Beat “senioritis” before it gets you.
Sometimes in college, students get tired of doing school work and are anxious to graduate, however, there are ways to overcome these feelings.
“Senioritis” is a phrase used by students to describe the desire to finish school. This phrase can be broken down into senior and “-itis.” Senior stands for a student in their last year of school and the phrase “itis” is added on to make the word sound like it is a disease. This isn’t a real medical condition, but most students “catch it.”
Have you ever had senioritis as freshman in college? Most students have experienced this feeling whether they are in their first year of school or their senior year.
“Senioritis” is a lack of motivation and interest in school. There are ways to stay motivated and excited about school. The first way is to try to remember why you chose to go to school. If that doesn’t work, think about the bill you’re racking up. N. C. A&T junior Renard Davis says when he is lacking motivation he re-evaluates, “why I’m doing it and the motivation is in the reason.”
If you are experiencing senioritis at the end of the semester try to remember that the grades you’ve worked for all semester may be hurt if you don’t complete your assignments. A&T senior Danielle Cameron says” I just think about the outcome to keep myself going, that’s the only thing I’ve been doing. How many people are counting on me? I have to get this finished. It can’t be a waste of time.”
Setting goals, changing your routine, commending yourself on achievements and having support can help cure senioritis. Setting daily goals can help you to be aware of what is important.
After completing a few of your goals it can give you a feeling of accomplishment. The feeling of accomplishment can help you stay on track and move on to the next goal.
Shaina Bodrick said, “ I am still motivated to push through. I’m ready to get over it but I’m still motivated. You do what you have to and when it’s all done then you can relax.”
Changing your routine can also help to keep school interesting. When your days are too repetitive they become boring. Try to change what you do after classes or on the weekends. You can also try different study methods.
Commending yourself on achievements can help you to stay motivated. An achievement can be something as small as getting out of bed and going to class, especially on days when you don’t feel like doing anything. Other achievements may include completing an assignment early or getting a good grade on an assignment.
Sometimes talking to someone about how you feel can help. Reaching out to friends and family can help to relieve any stress that may cause you to lose interest in school. If you prefer to speak to someone other than family, an on-campus resource is University Counseling Services. It is located in Murphy hall room 109. Their phone number is 336-334-7727.
Staying positive can also help give you the last push you need. Combining positive thoughts and remembering why you are in school can help. Surround yourself with things that motivate you.
For example, if you are going to school to become a doctor you can post a picture in your room with a doctor you admire.
You can also stay positive writing quotes in your notebook or posting it in your room. Giving yourself a slogan like “I won’t give up” or “I can do this” may also help with senioritis.
When senioritis comes early prepare yourself to tackle it so you can stay on track. “Don’t give up! You’ve already gotten this far!”
- KEENE-ANN JAMES Contributor