At 17 or 18 years old, many teenagers are expected to make some of the biggest decisions of their lives. Choosing a college, deciding on a career, and planning for the future can all happen within a few short months. For many high school seniors, this exciting time can also become stressful.
As graduation gets closer, questions about the future seem to come from everywhere. Teachers ask about college plans, family members ask about careers, and friends talk about where they are going after high school. These questions can make students feel behind if they do not have everything figured out.
Everyone Has a Different Timeline
College acceptances, scholarships, and achievements are exciting milestones. However, seeing classmates reach these goals can create pressure for students who are still figuring out their next steps. It can be difficult to remember that everyone has a different path.
Senior Vale Esperante said, “I don’t feel pressured when I see other people getting into better colleges or reaching big achievements, but it does scare me and sometimes makes me feel like I’m falling behind.”
Comparing Our Futures
Social media can make these feelings even stronger. Students constantly see people their age announcing college acceptances and sharing exciting plans for the future. Seeing these accomplishments every day can make others question their own progress.
Senior Nina Rumie said, “Sometimes I feel like everyone around me has everything figured out, and it makes me question if I’m doing enough for my future.”
The Pressure to Choose a Future
Another challenge teenagers face is feeling expected to choose a career before they have had the chance to experience different things. Some students know exactly what they want to do, while others are still discovering their interests.
Questions from adults about college and careers can also add to the pressure. Many teenagers feel like they are expected to have their entire lives planned before they even graduate.
Senior Matteo Barahona said, “I think adults sometimes forget that we’re still young and figuring things out. We shouldn’t have to know exactly what we want to do for the rest of our lives right after high school.”
Growing Up Doesn’t Mean Having All the Answers
Not having a complete plan does not mean someone is unsuccessful. Everyone has a different timeline. Some people discover their interests in college, others change their majors, and many find careers they never expected to pursue.
High school should also be a time for making friends, trying new things, and discovering who you are. Turning 18 does not mean someone automatically knows what they want from life. Growing up is a process, and young people should be reminded that they do not need to have their entire lives planned before they even begin.
