Surviving Senior Year of High School
Written by Martha Jackson
It’s time for graduation and families all over are experiencing the joy of their child completing a big milestone and preparing to move on to the next chapter.
During senior year, kids and parents have a lot of great memories as well as many “lasts”. It can be an emotional, yet extremely happy year and you don’t always know what to expect. It can be especially difficult if it’s your first time to go through it (like me!) and you don’t know what to expect. That’s why I invited Alicia Jahant and Jennifer Thomas, who between the two of them have four graduating from Highland Park this year, to join me on the podcast to fill us in on how to survive senior year.
To listen to the podcast click here
Spring Break
It all starts with Spring Break planning. I received emails, phone calls and texts during the first week in March of 2022 to plan Spring Break 2023. I was preparing to go to Orlando for the annual Belles dance competition and keep in mind this was before Spring Break of the current year had even happened. I did not have the mental capacity to think about it as I was not prepared to have to plan over a year in advance. Let this serve as your reminder that it will happen, so hopefully you will be better prepared to make a decision!
It began with one travel agent planning a trip to Cancun. Some weren’t comfortable traveling to Mexico, so a second trip popped up with another travel agent to the Bahamas. From what I am told, this is pretty typical and two official trips are offered though a travel agent. Many kids and usually one parent attends one or the other. Of course, you can plan your own trip and do exactly what you want!
Senior Photos
Then we move to Senior photos. You’ll start getting those emails to book your appointment in April/May. Most Highland Park families use Courtney Teesdale, who has been shooting for HP seniors for many years.
For more information about Courtney Teesdale click here.
Applications
College applications are a huge part of senior year and I am told that getting as much done during the summer prior to your senior year is key. Many HP families hire college consultants or advisors which I hear is key to keeping your sanity with your child. When information comes from someone other than a parent, it seems to resonate more! You will also avoid being the one that is nagging them to get their essays and applications done, which will translate into a happier relationship for your last year!
Listen to the podcast for tips on how to stay organized and on top of your applications here
Fun Stuff AKA Parties
As Alicia and Jennifer shared there is pretty much a party every weekend during the senior year. Many have themes which will guide you on what to wear. It’s always a good idea to have a “dress swap” with friends so you don’t have to purchase a new outfit or costume for every event. I also recommend visiting the upscale resale store, Clothes Circuit , which is Park Cities mom owned, at 6105 Sherry Lane. They carry all the top brands and have a wonderful selection of clothing and you won’t have to pay full price!
Senioritis
Contrary to popular opinion, your grades do they matter your senior year. Students should not cave into senioritis and should plan to finish strong. Colleges can take back offers if your student is not performing up to expectations and how unfortunate would that be?!
That’s it in a nutshell, senior year is going to be exhausting, fun and memorable. I’ll keep you posted along the way on the blog and podcast of how senior year is going with Alexis (and us!). Although I am very excited for her, I have no idea where time has gone. She was just my little precious toddler and now she’s a senior. Wish us luck!