Seniors cram in last-minute credits before graduation

As an underclassman, senior Rotem Shaked chose not to take P.E. or the equivalent so that he could take other classes. Having put off P.E. credits until his senior year, Shaked assumed he’d have to endure a dreadful season of a sport or P.E. class with freshmen and sophomores. Instead, Shaked said he has loved participating in cross country and fulfilling his needed credits.

“It actually worked out really well, since cross country practices are quick, the team is very supportive of new runners and nobody stresses too much about competition,” Shaked said.

Shaked is no outlier to the system. Dozens of students each year put off getting needed credits until senior year, whether it be for athletics or for other subjects, such as visual or applied arts.

Like Shaked, senior Miles Peng has found that he enjoys what he was forced to do last-minute for credits. Peng is taking Psychology to complete his applied arts credits.

“I was surprised to find that I didn’t mind the class at all,” Peng said. “I’m glad that I can find both a peaceful and interesting class that helps fulfill my requirements at the same time.”

Though Shaked and Peng have adapted quickly to the experience of a new sport and class, others find themselves regretting the decision to wait until senior year for their credits.

Senior Farbod Moghadam, who had to take Ceramics this year in order to fulfill his visual performing arts credits before college, had forgo his interest in classes such as Anatomy and Psychology as a consequence.

“As a senior, there are some classes you have always wanted to take, but have to sacrifice in order to obtain the necessary credits,” Moghadam said.

The guidance counselors often frown upon students who decide to procrastinate on essential credits until their last year, and P.E. is a particular problem for some

If the student is unable to make the team they try out for, it  can be tough to meet the credit requirements.

In addition, a senior could be put in class for the sake of credits, but have to face an uncomfortable situation.

“While it isn’t the end of a world, a senior could feel a bit silly when forced to take a class full of freshmen, for example, beginner P.E,” guidance counselor Eileen Allen said.

Though often frowned upon, the trend of students putting of needed classes is likely to continue.

“Our students have a lot going on so there will always be kids who procrastinate and struggle to fit [the credits] all in,” Allen said.