Preparing for senior year and graduation can be some of the hardest and most stressful points in a person’s high school life. Especially if tossed into the graduation frenzy with zero guidance or knowledge of actions that can make the process of preparing for that next stage of life easier.  

  Completing assignments, applying to universities, obtaining community service hours, and SAT/ACT scores are only a few factors that tie into reaching the finish line where you walk across the stage and receive your diploma.
 

Start preparing now as an underclassman
   Kayleen Robinson, a senior here at Miami High, stated, “A mistake I made going into my senior year was not being more on top of preparing for college. I only applied in December and wasn’t aware that I had to provide certain information such as proof of residency. Now the year is ending, and I feel like I’m running out of time. Avoid procrastinating on college preparations as much as possible because the year will fly by. We’ve already gone through March and while it may seem far away, senior year and college will sneak up on you if you aren’t aware.”
    Kayleen would probably do things differently as an underclassman. She said, “During my freshman year I spent a lot of time slacking off. Although I’ve put my best self forward the last year or two, my G.P.A. still suffers the consequences of my past mistakes. You have to be sure to give 100% all four years and everyday alongside finding time for yourself and friends. Don’t get yourself kicked out by having bad grades, doing stupid stuff, or hanging around the wrong people. Remember to surround yourself with those who lift you up and strive for excellence.”

Who are your real friends?  

  This idea of choosing your friends wisely is echoed by senior Maykel Urbina who advised, “Not everyone needs to be a school-time friend. Some people are only good to hang out with during the weekend. If they’re only doing wrong, they might not be a good person to hang around in general. Know the difference between who’s a weekend friend and who’s a school friend.”
   Looking for mentors or role models is worth it to Maykel. He said, “It’s also a good idea to hang out with and get to know seniors before you enter senior year yourself. They can give good advice and you can bear witness to what being a senior is like through them, including the trials they must overcome and the fun they get to have. This way you’ll be better prepared and know what to expect,” added Maykel.

Say NO to Procrastination  

  Senior Emily Ramirez stated, “The best thing you can do for yourself is stop procrastinating. Although it is a difficult habit to break and happens to the best of us. I have missed so many deadlines because I left things to the last minute. During my time in AP, I learned that I really shouldn’t rush work at the last second if I want to produce quality work.”
 

Scholarships can help pay for college  

    Senior Cristine Gomez advised, “Underclassmen should remember to apply for scholarships early on if possible, even before senior year. College is expensive, and while getting good grades is important and should definitely be a priority, you want to earn the money to attend that dream university if college is within your plans for the future. You should also earn as many community service hours as possible. If you put in the effort, some of those hours may open opportunity to scholarships as well. Make sure you’ve met all your graduation requirements as soon as possible so you can enjoy all the activities senior year provides and spend that time with your friends. It’s important to take advantage of opportunities to have fun!”
 

Advocate for Yourself 

    In addition, Kayleen feels that the school announcements are a great way to stay informed and updated. She says, “Listen to the announcements. Even if you have your headphones in, take them out when the announcements come on. If it weren’t for the announcements, I would’ve missed the deadline for the candy sales which were a thought at the back of my mind. It’s also important to advocate for yourself. Nobody else is going to go as hard for you as you can for yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask your teachers for help; most of them will be understanding. It’s just like if you’re too afraid to ask for your ketchup at McDonalds, remember that closed mouths don’t get fed.”

EXTRA TIPS IN PREPARING FOR YOUR SENIOR YEAR!
-Set goals for yourself!
-Manage your time effectively!
-Be prepared for exams!
-Challenge yourself with some difficult courses!
-Get involved in your school community!
-Spend time with friends and family!
-Make memories!
-Take advantage of resources!
-Take care of your school finances! Senior year is expensive!
-Stay positive!