Standing on the brink of independence and adulthood, high school graduation should be a time of celebration and anticipation, yet for many, it’s overshadowed by a dark cloud of anxiety. So seniors, how are we feeling? Nervous but excited, scared but relieved, and maybe even nostalgic? It is okay to be feeling all of those emotions and it’s normal to feel every ounce of them.
Although I know I don’t want to be in this high school environment anymore, I don’t know where I want to go. Even though I am committed to a university, I’m feeling a lot of uncertainty about what I want to do and how I want to do it. Here are some tips about managing the worries of this big change in the beginning of recognizing independence and growing as an independent person;
- Laugh with company: As a high schooler, I’ve had many interactions where I’ve felt awkward, but also many where I have felt loved and appreciated. So get together with some friends or family and watch a coming-of-age movie. This could help someone to reflect on their own high school experience, maybe there will be tears, but also cringing and laughter. After all, there is a reason why high school students make the most compelling coming-of-age characters.
- Try and stay as healthy as possible and practice lots of self-care: As anxiety levels are high, it’s important to stay hydrated, exercise often, listen to music that evokes a good feeling, reach out to friends, and get enough sleep. This may not help with the unpredictability of moving away and not being able to predict the future, but it will help create the right mindset to help someone make rational and thought-out decisions.
- Keep an open mind: College campuses are melting pots of cultures, ideas, and perspectives. By keeping an open mind, people are more receptive to embracing the diversity around them, whether it’s in terms of people, beliefs, or experiences. It also might help to find and blossom an interest in something not previously explored
- Plan your next move: Although no one can predict the future, it is good to practice thinking before making a decision and brainstorming why it would be impactful. Getting organized (even in the midst of the chaos that is senior year) can be a reassuring, calming exercise. For some, having a planned next move will help their next steps feel more possible and less intimidating.
Lastly, remember that no one is alone in these feelings; countless friends and other graduates have walked this path before and have faced similar fears and doubts. Although it’s not possible to get rid of every trace of worry, there’s growth to come out of feeling uncomfortable – and college is a moment for growth, learning, and change. By acknowledging and addressing concerns, seeking support from loved ones, grieving what fun was had throughout high school, and focusing on the excitement of the opportunities that await, everyone can navigate through this challenging time with grace and resilience. So, as the graduating class tosses their caps into the air, remember that the best is around the corner, and 12th graders are prepared with the strength and courage to overcome all obstacles.
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