Countdown to What’s Next

Although we’re only a quarter of the way into the school year, many seniors are already thinking about what life will look like after graduation. There are many things to think about when picking colleges.

Senior Jay Glaze explained that his biggest motivation for his future comes from wanting to live up to his parents’ expectations.

“My parents see a lot of potential in me, and I just really want to make them proud in what I do next in life,” Glaze said.

Other seniors, like Paisley Jeter, see college not as just earning a degree, but stepping out of her comfort zone

“In college, I hope to just gain a different perspective on life and education,” Jeter said. “My dad went to Tarelton, and he has encouraged me to do what makes me happy and get away from home a little bit.”

Counselors encourage students to see life after high school as an experience to be happy and grateful about instead of something to fear.

“I think sometimes we have fear, stress, or anxiety about the application process—and just helping students see that it’s nothing to be feared but something to be explored and be excited about,” COOL counselor Tenille Roberts said. “I had a student last year who worked hard and received a full ride to UT Arlington, and I think that was one of my biggest success stories.”

Roberts said she believes determination plays a huge role in future success.

“I think determination is a really big aspect of being successful in college,” Roberts said. “Just learning how to study and learning how to live life on your own by being independent.”

For many seniors, planning for life after high school isn’t just about the academics, but about finding direction and holding onto the passions that make them who they are.

“I’m really expecting college to be a new start wherever I go,” Glaze said. “I feel prepared. I’ve always had a deep love for music, and whether I major in it or not, I know it’s something that will carry with me throughout my life.”