Senior: a student in the final year of college or high school. -Itis: forming names of inflammatory diseases. Together, they make “senioritis,” a phenomenon that’s sweeping the good seniors of the Arlington Career Center.

Senioritis is symptomatically defined as a decrease in motivation, extreme procrastination, skipping classes or extracurriculars, and general apathy in relation to school and educational topics. Senioritis often stems from feelings of “burnout,” which can appear regardless of grade level and manifest as exhaustion and isolation. As such, this disease is widespread and highly contagious, especially when common factors are present, such as difficult assignments.

From 25 ACC seniors interviewed, 17 of which completed an informative google form, the results revealed a clear indication that there is a rampant outbreak of Senioritis at our beloved institution.

While these symptoms are general and typically not majorly impactful, the graphs show that they still take a toll on our senior class as we near the end of our time in high school. Despite being an ironically nicknamed phenomenon, senioritis is very real and very misunderstood. When asked what methods they use to cope with the symptoms of senioritis, Jesse Holt stated, “[I] Deal with it.” An insight into the philosophy of our seniors. While there are many resources available in school for poor grades or mental health counseling, these don’t often take into consideration the worries of seniors. When asked what features of ACC exacerbate these symptoms, Kate Runion stated, “Everyone here is not helpful.” Other seniors (around 25 or so) expressed similar sentiments when asked. 

Ms. McFarlane, 10th Grade English teacher, whose archers is made up of primarily seniors, when asked if her seniors are experiencing senioritis, stated “Yes.” Other teachers, whose classes are made up of seniors, like Dr. Marcille, also agree that senioritis is a pressing issue at our humble institution.

It’s our last year of being a “kid.” As soon as it’s over, life becomes real. We go to college, maybe out of state, and leave behind every preconceived notion of school, because we’re adults now: responsible for ourselves, not even a year after having to ask for a hall pass to use the bathroom. 

If you or a loved one is struggling with senioritis, you are not alone. Please reach out to your school board to complain. It probably won’t go anywhere, but you’ll feel accomplished, and that’s what really matters.