Seniors open up about stress, attendance, and pushing through burnout during their final year
Senior year is often described as the easiest year of high school, but for many students, it is one of the most exhausting. As graduation approaches, seniors face mounting pressure from academics, attendance, future plans, and daily responsibilities, leaving many feelings burned out long before the finish line.
Senior Zy’eer Sistrunk, a football player, said senior burnout hit him earlier than he expected. “Around the middle of the first quarter, I went from being motivated to just trying to get through the day,” Sistrunk said. He explained that constant questions about his future have been one of the most draining parts of senior year. While his attendance has declined, he said he still makes an effort to stay engaged in class. “Talking to my friends reminds me I’m not the only one going through this,” he said.
For Tomme Lane, a top-ranked, high-achieving senior who also works as a hostess at a sports bar, burnout is more mental than academic. Lane said she continues to complete her work and maintain good attendance, but it requires significantly more effort than before. “It’s definitely there,” Lane said. “I’m still doing all my work, but it takes a lot more energy than it used to.” She said sticking to a routine helps her manage her time. “I try to finish as much as I can right after school before I lose motivation,” she said.
Senior Da’Sean Williams said exhaustion is a constant part of his routine. An honor-roll student who works at Wendy’s, Williams said balancing school and work often leaves him drained, especially in the mornings. “My attendance is okay, but I’m exhausted in class,” he said. Despite the fatigue, Williams said graduation keeps him motivated. “Knowing there’s an end in sight helps me keep going,” he said.
Although their schedules and responsibilities differ, all three students described senior year as more stressful than people assume. Sistrunk said the idea that senior year is easy is misleading. “People act like it’s supposed to be fun and relaxing,” he said. “But it’s actually stressful.”
As seniors count down the final months of high school, many are learning how to cope with burnout while still showing up each day. Through support from friends, structured routines, and a focus on graduation, students continue pushing forward even when motivation is running low.
