The other night, I was listening to one of my favorite talking heads. S/he said “Graduation is the bridge between high school and adulthood.” I thought to myself, how true.
I often think it is hard to be a high school student one day, and the next day you’re an adult. But that’s today’s society. I think it takes a while to get used to that concept. While there are certain benefits to being an adult, including the ability to vote, hold a job, sign some legal papers…there is still the age of 21 holding back other privileges.
Being the over achiever that I am, I thought I would be clever in googling what seniors should be doing. I found some very interesting comments.
- Senior year is an important time to make memories and spend time with the people (and pets!) you love. Regardless of whether or not you decide to go to college, or move away from your hometown, senior year is a big transition. Rely on your loved ones for support as you navigate your senior year. Family members will likely have valuable senior year advice for you as well. Focus on spending quality time with your loved ones, strengthening your relationships, and sharing memories.
- Take pictures of you with your friends…every one of them.
- Step out of your comfort zone! Graduate high school without any regrets. Take a moment to think about whether there is anything you’ve wanted to try, but haven’t had the time, or the nerve, for. High school is a great time to try new things, so challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone!
- Write a thank you note to your favorite teacher.
- Take a photo with your school mascot.
- Make a college bucket list.
- Take a photo with your college acceptance letter and post it on your social media (leave out your personal information so that it can’t be read).
- Do a dance in your graduation robe.
While I was tempted to do the Top 10…I only wrote those that made me smile. I hope they make you smile, too. They are from “10 Pieces of Advice for High School Seniors” and “Senior Year Bucket List 2023.”
So…have fun these final months. There is prom, parties, graduation, baccalaureate. But the “almost adult” part of your world has to focus on continuing down your future path. There are still many decisions to be made, such as final school selection, getting a job, or going into the military. All are life changing activities. While college has a social component, it is also preparation for your future world. If your path is a trade, manufacturing, 2-year college or the military, there are still preparations that need to be made.
It’s also a moment for parents. I found it to be bittersweet. I felt liberated, but supportive of my children’s choices. Continuing to support their paths financially, emotionally, and just by being present. Of course, I often had to put in my two cents…but, as adults, they could accept or reject it.
Cherish these moments of your senior year and prepare for your “adulthood.” Ready or not.
Patricia G. Egan, MBA, CFRE
Executive Director, LEAF
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