To Our Seniors:

Three years ago- I was just like you, counting down the days until graduation, cramming for final exams, worrying about college decisions, worrying about career decisions, talking to my friends about what instagram photo I should post for #seniorsunday, and overall stressing about work, school, life, and the question about what happens after graduation finally arrives. 

For me, the big moments of April 2019 were those that were historical, those that were personal, those that were emotional, and even the ones that were stressful. The Notre Dame Cathedral went up in flames, but Avengers Endgame premiered in Theaters. Presidential campaigns begin to kick off again, but we also were able to take the first ever photo to exist of a black hole. I was accepted into the Direct Admit Business Honors Program at Oakland University, began receiving financial aid offers, and had to make tough decisions about all of the schools and programs that I had been accepted into. I asked myself a lot of questions. 

What did I want? Which program would work best for me? What was I going to study? Which campus did I like the most? Where would I be living? How far from home did I want to be? What loans would I have to take out? What classes would I need to take? 

I was surrounded by questions that I needed to ask of myself, all while every corner I turned someone new was asking: what are your college plans? Where will you be next year? What are you going to study? 

Have you decided?

Have you decided?

Have you decided?
 

That stress, anxiety, and burnout was real. Those questions and decisions are difficult.

As a member of CVFC- I want to reassure you all that we understand and that we’ve been there, and that we at MASC/MAHS are here to be a resource, a sounding board, and a spark of optimism when those decisions get difficult. There are thousands of high school seniors going through those very decisions and questions alongside you right now. You are not alone in your stress, your worry, or that very real feeling of just not knowing. But we’re here for you with tips, tricks, advice, and people to go to:

1. Take your time and clear your mind. While these decisions and questions may feel pressing, it’s ok to not have all of the answers right now. Take time for yourself to reflect, journal, exercise, paint, or engage in something else that makes you happy. Having a healthy work-life-school balance is crucial in managing stress and improving your mental health. It’s also way easier to think about difficult decisions with a clear mind. 
2. Reach out to current students at the college that you’re attending or the program that you’re looking into. CVFC currently has members attending the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, Oakland University, Central Michigan University, Grand Valley State University, Saginaw Valley State University, University of Minnesota, University of Pennsylvania, Spelman University, University of Detroit Mercy, University of North Carolina, and Ohio Northern University, and connections to countless other students at colleges across the country. We cover a vast array of majors, programs, and interests from education, finance, psychology, engineering, and more. Message us on IG (@mascmahs) and we will be happy to help answer any questions you might have or connect you to someone who can help. 
3. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or mental health- there are resources available for you,  whether you need immediate help, general guidance, or just someone to talk to. 
   1. Talk to a doctor, school counselor, or someone else that you trust who can get you in contact with someone to talk to whether it’s a therapist, counselor, or other valuable resource. 
   2. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – Call 800-273-TALK (8255), If you or someone you know is in crisis—whether they are considering suicide or not—please call the toll-free Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7.
   3. Crisis Text Line – Text NAMI to 741-741, Connect with a trained crisis counselor to receive free, 24/7 crisis support via text message.