Senioritis is the fabled "disease" that infects students everywhere when graduation is lurking around the corner. However, for some students, when senioritis is combined with a heavy course load in an attempt to finish all of those last credits, it can become difficult to manage.
The maximum number of credits that students can take each semester without paying extra is 18. But when it comes to seniors, some push the limit and take as many as they can in order to graduate on time.
In addition to heavy course loads, many students have to work, prepare for life after graduation, which includes applying to graduate schools, law schools or both.
"The key is time management, really. I made my schedule so that I can study for the LSAT and do work study during breaks," said Brittany White, senior legal communications major. "Organization also plays a big role. I take all my class notes on my computer so I have time to review them at night."
White, who is carrying 20 credits this semester, is not alone. Students schedules also become packed due to course requirements outside of their major.
Senior biology major, Monee Mickins, said her heavy course load is not due to her major or minor classes, but courses she has to take to reach her minimum credit requirement.
"I'm frustrated because the requirements for my major and minor are mostly fulfilled. However, my heavy course load is due to having to take unnecessary courses to obtain 127 credits and fulfill divisionals," said Mickins.
Courses that are outside of a student's major or minor are placed on the scheme to make students well-rounded and to ensure that they receive the optimum educational experience before leaving the university. However, those classes can still can be a pain when students are trying to enjoy their time with friends and social activities.
"I usually take 18 credits each semester, but I decided to drop my elective class and only take 15," said Kiara McCoy, senior hospitality management major.
Most students want to enjoy their senior year, but often find it challenging to effectively balance their academic and social lives.
"Since I'm taking 18 credits, I will just have to balance my studies and my fun a little bit differently," said Chanel Oldham , senior accounting major. "I still have time to go out and have fun with friends; I just know that I'll have to spend that much more time in the books."
The old saying, "work hard, play hard" seems to be the rule that prospective graduates have followed for years and the class of 2011 and beyond will be no different.
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