Last Year of High School by Shayna

Last Year of High School by Shayna - April 2016 Scholarship Essay

Senior year is coming to a close and SENIORITIES is kicking in. Everyone is excited for summer and the days start to go by quicker--the end of the year is approaching fast. It may seem like there's no time for homework, studying doesn't seem like a priority anymore, and the lack of motivation is starting to set in. The weather is getting nicer and daydreaming about being outside or summer vacation is all anyone can think about. Students, don't let this happen to you; listen up because I am about to tell you something I wish I had been told long ago.
"Junior year is the most important, so take all your hard classes and then Senior year you
can just relax." No. I repeat, NO. Do not fall for this statement. Throughout my high school all I've ever heard was that Junior year would be tough and Senior year I could relax. I am telling you now this information is false.
Yes, Junior year is a lot of work and colleges will pay a great deal of attention to the
classes you take during that year--this information is true. The ACT will have a major impact on whether or not you are accepted for a scholarship or university. When they tell you that Junior year you have to work hard, they are not making that up. What I'm saying is Senior year is not the time to relax so, DO NOT LET SENIORITIES DEFEAT YOU.
Senior year you need to work harder than you have ever worked before. Now is the time
to apply for colleges and scholarships. Yes, apply to your dream college, but have back up plans just in case. This means filling out multiple applications and writing a variety of essays. Spend extra time to create a resume for yourself; this should include clubs/activities, honors/awards, volunteer hours (start logging dates and hours), and work experience. Write a few general essays for your own reference to make it easier on yourself for writing future essays. Start by figuring out what you want to major in, what college you'd like to attend, and what career you may like to pursue. If you are undecided that is ok, but be prepared to answer difficult questions that may leave you struggling to find an answer. If this happens to you, try to use your hobbies, passions, and interests to lead you in the right direction.
When you start to apply to colleges be sure to apply for scholarships as well. Start
applying for scholarships early because it gets really competitive. There are many open to Juniors as well as Seniors. I am currently a high school senior and the way I see it, your senior year can make or break you. If you let lack of effort consume you, you will fall behind and it won't be easy catching up. On the other hand, if you are determined to fight through seniorities and make a plan for yourself you will come out on top. Set daily goals, set weekly goals, set monthly goals, and if you do, you will eventually achieve your ultimate goal.