“I just haven’t learned everything yet” is a sentiment that many soon-to-be graduating seniors share. 

As May creeps closer, many seniors are getting ready to leave home for college and adult-life. While some are ready to face this big transition out of their childhood;  independence can be a scary and new thing. When there’s so much to figure out, it can all seem overwhelming. Concerns about moving, finding a job, and learning how to be on your own all at once causes many students to wish that they had more time to prepare.

Luckily there are things that seniors can do to help prepare themselves more for adult life. With the counseling center, students can get information to colleges, military options, and even work opportunities. Events such as the senior hiring event, and college fairs can help students get a taste of what’s coming and start building connections sooner. Many seniors with part-time jobs can already gain financial education and a look into budgeting, deeper than what they might learn in a classroom.

Family plays a big part in teaching these useful life skills too. Learning how to cook, clean, and take care of yourself are all things that students learn at home. These are essential in maintaining a healthy routine and lifestyle as a young adult. Even seniors moving away from home can still carry these helpful habits with new roommates and ways of living.

While graduation can be looked at as a stressful event for kids who feel like they don’t know what they’re doing, there are resources out there. Relying on your family and yourself to help bridge the gap between high school and the real world, can make for a smoother transition into adulthood.