While it’s not a term you will find in Webster’s Dictionary, “senioritis,” according to many Auburn University seniors, is a real ailment with real symptoms. This can afflict any senior, high school or college. “Senioritis” has been plaguing scholars for years, but in these rough economic times some students are less excited to graduate.

Although Webster doesn’t recognize it and you can’t go see a doctor for a cure, Wikipedia and Urban Dictionary are two Websites that publish “senioritis” definitions and information.

Urban Dictionary is an online slang dictionary. You will be able to find colloquialisms that are not recognized as real words, but that are often used in conversation, especially by young adults. For example, Urban Dictionary defines “bromance” as “the complicated love and affection shared by two straight males.”

According to Urban Dictionary, “senioritis” is “A crippling disease that strikes high school seniors. Symptoms include: laziness, an over-excessive wearing of track pants, old athletic shirts, sweatpants, athletic shorts, and sweatshirts. Also features a lack of studying, repeated absences, and a generally dismissive attitude. The only known cure is a phenomenon known as ‘graduation’.”

Rebecca House is an Auburn University senior who is a firm believer in “senioritis.”

“I remember when I was a senior in high school. It feels like yesterday. And we would joke that we all have ‘senioritis,’ and can’t wait to go to college,” says House. “But the crazy thing is college has flown by, and I’m starting to get that old familiar feeling. I have had a great time at Auburn, but I’m just so sick of school. I’m itching to graduate, be done with homework forever and finally make my own money.”

Even though Urban Dictionary’s definition has a frivolous tone, “senioritis” can have some serious effects. High school students suffering from “senioritis” usually come down with the “diseases” after they have gotten into college, but before graduation. These incoming freshmen will find it difficult to transition to college academics. College senior cases involve difficulties transitioning into a 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. work day. That is, if someone coming out of college finds a job.

Jessica Rodgers, a senior at Auburn University, discusses “senioritis.”

“I definitely had ‘senioritis’ in high school because I was so ready for the college adventure, but now things are different,” says Rodgers. “I actually expected my ‘senioritis’ to be a lot worse this semester, but it’s not that bad because I’m having such a hard time finding a job. I do have ‘senioritis,’ in the sense that I’m ready for school to be over, but at the same time I don’t because I don’t have a plan after school.”
Because of the poor state of the economy, it has been hard for many college graduates to find jobs. Auburn University’s Career Development Services, located at 303 Martin Hall, offers career counselors to anybody who feels they may need guidance before graduating. Career counselors are available on a walk-in basis from Monday to Friday, 12 noon to 4 p.m. Or you can call 334-844-4744 to schedule an appointment from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.


Find more videos like this on The Loveliest Village