Senior year is here, and less than one month into it, my expectations are already failing to be met. Although I am sure that this year will be an amazing experience, my goals as a perfectionist have made the past few weeks a harsh reality check.

Expectation: “I’m going to take easy classes so I can cruise through the final year of high school.”

Reality: My schedule is not a cake walk.

I decided to take some of the most challenging classes of my entire high school career this year. So far, I am enjoying the content of these classes, but I am already drowning in my workload. I am currently learning how to navigate these treacherous waters so I can turn these challenges into positive life lessons.

Expectation: “I am going to have so much free time.”

Reality: Free time? Never heard of it.

As previously mentioned, my workload is pretty rigorous. I also have cross country practice during the week and meets on the weekend. Thankfully, most of my friends are runners.

Expectation: “I am going to be so productive during my full period of lunch.”

Reality: I basically just talk to my friends the whole time.

I guess this isn’t a bad thing, because I definitely need some time to eat, chat and unwind in the middle of the day. Everyone needs a little break every once in a while.

Expectation: “I am going to make my college decision early in the fall.”

Reality: I have not even applied to any schools.

Although I have completed most of the Common App, I still have lots to do. In terms of actually making a decision on a school, that will happen soon enough; I am no longer limiting myself in terms of the time frame that I originally set into place. Eventually, it will be nice to have a definitive answer of where I will be attending school for the next four years when an extended relative asks that question for the twelfth time.