Hanging in the Balance: The Struggle in the High School Years

Maria Fernanda McCavitt, Staff Writer, World News and Spanish Editor
March 12, 2012
Filed under Columns, Student Life, Uncategorized

Many students find themselves trapped in the same position- forced to balance school, sports, social life, and sleep. They sit on a delicate scale, and neglecting any one thing could definitely have its negative effects. Not to mention an ongoing struggle with procrastination: the ever-present foe to all forms of productivity. High school students around the world struggle to keep up with the huge expectations put upon them by peers, parents, teachers and themselves.

While some may argue that the teenage years are some of the easiest in their lives, others remember them as the hardest and most stressful. Some saw high school as their domain, where they were the most comfortable, while others would rather forget their time in high school. Although high school entails far less responsibilities than adult life, it is the first time that any real responsibility is placed upon teenagers. While high school offers the most fun memories and experiences, they are also physically and emotionally trying. Lack of much-needed sleep, homework, studying, AP courses, college applications, relationships, and practices all bear down on teens.

Teens are faced with growing social pressures and distractions. Facebook, Twitter, Skype and other social media serve both as popular social aids and distractions. Students face heavy peer pressures, drugs and alcohol for example. High school is when young adults start taking on the responsibilities of adults. For high school students, adult life is just around the corner.

Many teens have to balance many aspects of their lives, whether social, academic, extracurricular or even financial. Failing to do any of them would be detrimental, whether it would mean neglecting a relationship, failing a grade, or failing to honor a commitment. Excessive stress can also wreak havoc on your emotions and your health.

Every decision seems that it will leave an everlasting mark on your imaginary permanent record, whether good or bad. Although there are lots of people to guide and help you, a large part of the decision making rests upon your shoulders.

Teens share many of the same worries. What if I don’t pass this test? What if I don’t get into college? What will I do after high school? But, not to worry, you’ll get through it. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Although this is definitely easier said then done, if you manage to do it you’ll be able to manage what’s important much better.

Students often struggles to balance school with the rest of their lives.

High school is definitely not all bad. Although you might feel stressed and pressured, high school is a time when you can hang out with friends, mature, and actually learn. You can celebrate your individuality and uniqueness. High school is your time to shine.

Tags: high school, homework, media distractions, peer pressure, pressure, procrastination, Social, social life, stress, teen life

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