Avoiding the Plague by Erin

Avoiding the Plague by Erin - January 2016 Scholarship Essay

The notorious plague of “senioritis” has arrived for this year’s seniors. I have witnessed my older sister and some of my older friends fall into its clutches. The most successful students become the most afflicted with this disease as soon as they get accepted into college. Now that I’m at my greatest risk for contracting “senioritis”, I have made a New Year’s Resolution not to succumb to this disease and to continue to become the best student that I am capable of being.

When thinking of all that I have accomplished, I am reminded of all of the hard work that got me here. The nights I did not get to start homework until nine because of softball practice, and the mornings waking up at 5:30 AM for workouts before class are proof of my efforts. I did not just skate by in school by trying only when I wanted. Looking back on my last three and a half years of high school, I can say that I am proud of what I have achieved. I never could’ve imagined committing to play Division 1 softball at Cornell University, scoring a 36 on the ACT, and having a 4.5 GPA. I have only succeeded due to the hard work I have put in so far.

With one semester remaining in high school, I want to finish the way I started. While I do not plan on failing any classes, recently I have been tempted to let up on the gas pedal at school. I need to remember how hard work does pay off even when it does not feel like that may be the case. Although it may seem like the grades I will get in the second semester do not matter very much, the important thing is that I learn the material for the sake of learning the material.

If I prepare well and work hard in class now, I will be helping myself in the future. As an example, right now I am taking AP Psychology and AP Calculus. In the spring, I plan on taking the AP tests for college credit. Taking the tests seems so far away that it is easy to lose sight of why these classes matter so much. Most importantly, these classes will provide a basis for my career in neuroscience. Taking these courses now will also allow me to take other classes that I may be interested in and will save me money since I will not have to take Calculus and Psychology in college.

I will keep in mind that slacking off will not pay off for me in the long run. As tempting as it may be to allow myself to follow the pattern of other seniors, I will take every precaution I can to avoid “senioritis”. I will finish my high school career strong.