A gradual decline in motivation, or a general lack of concern regarding school-related responsibilities seem to be the major symptoms of senioritis.

Senioritis symptoms have a tendency to flare up when students are feeling overwhelmed.

"Between classes, student organizations, work and job searching my plate is quite full and classes have begun to take a backseat in my mind as graduation grows nearer," journalism senior Charlene Decrease said. 

Decrease has been struggling with the symptoms of senioritis since the beginning of the school year, but noted that this semester and the past couple weeks have been more of a challenge when it comes to staying motivated.

"To keep myself motivated I take sixteen credits and have two jobs in order to keep myself as busy as possible," hospitality business senior Christine Cox said. "I work best when I have a ton to do so I'm always doing something."

Job searching, and worrying about the future can also be a major source of stress for seniors who are graduating and plan on leaving the East Lansing area.

Media and information senior Cheyna Holmes has also experienced the symptoms of senioritis, but has managed to remain positive throughout the semester.

"I realize that this is the last stretch and I have to keep pushing until the end," Holmes said.

Organization is an important aspect of holding onto motivation. Keeping a to-do list and having scheduled study sessions can be extremely helpful.

"My biggest motivator is my planner and lists. My planner is cluttered with homework assignments, meetings, work times, and exam dates,"  Decrease said. "The most important thing for me was to schedule study or homework time."

Negativity can also take a toll on levels of productivity. Decrease commented that she likes to remain as positive as possible.

"With cheesy motivation pictures for a phone background, I can pull myself back when I feel like things have gotten too overwhelming," she said.

For some students the end of college can be a stressful experience, while others may look at the situation in a positive way.

"I keep myself motivated when I think about graduation and when I think about how hard I have worked," Holmes said. "I tell myself to continue working hard because it's almost over." 

It may be hard for seniors to stay focused and motivated at times, as Cox noted. "There is so much change that is about to happen to everyone. It's really overwhelming but also extremely exciting too."