On Tuesday, January 14, the senior class had the opportunity to hear from seven ASIJ alumni who shared their college experiences and offered advice on what to expect as we transition from ASIJ to the next chapter of our lives. One question Mr. Nelson asked stuck with many of us: If you could go back in time, how would you spend your last 133 days as a senior?

Fittingly so, in just a few short weeks, we will hit a milestone: 100 days until graduation. 100 days until we seniors say goodbye to our peers, teachers, and the school we’ve called home, some for the past 12 years. As second-semester seniors, the familiar term “senioritis” is already making its rounds. The pressures that once pushed us are fading, leaving many of us wondering: how should we spend the remaining days of our senior year?

To help make the most of this time, I’ve put together a senior year bucket list.

1. Explore Japan

For many of us, these final months of senior year mark our last in Japan before we move somewhere new for university or other plans. With that in mind, now is the perfect time to explore what we’ve yet to discover. Whether it’s through visiting Japan’s iconic landmarks like Mount Fuji, venturing to new prefectures like Osaka, or taking a short train down to Kamakura, exploring these places with friends and family is a perfect way to appreciate the country we’ve called home. 

However, the adventure doesn’t have to take you far. Take the time to explore your local neighborhood—try out new cafes, visit unfamiliar restaurants, or simply wander down streets you’ve yet to see. Mr. Nelson suggests hopping on a train, getting off at a random stop, and simply seeing where the road takes you.

And don’t forget the areas near ASIJ! Take advantage of senior privileges to rent a bike and explore nearby favorites like Sankichi or Ruhan Kitchen. Hop on the train to Shin-Koganei for Suzie-Q or swing by Kichijoji and Musashi-Sakai for a plethora of hidden gems.

Overall, immerse yourself in Japanese culture while you still can. Try as many new convenience store items as possible (because 7/11s around the world just don’t compare). Taste those Japanese dishes you’ve been hesitant to try and practice your Japanese with friends or locals whenever possible.

2. Make the Most of ASIJ

While exploring Japan is a must, don’t overlook the fact that some of the best memories can be made right here at ASIJ!

Get involved in something new, like joining a spring activity such as softball or the musical. It’s a great way to meet people you haven’t connected with yet and to make your last months here even more memorable.

Don’t skip out on class comps. Though I may be slightly biased as a student council representative, participating in at least one class comp is practically a senior rite of passage. As seniors, it’s our responsibility to lead the way and defend that class comps title! And for those feeling adventurous, take Mr. Nelson’s advice and try out the Bob the Mustang costume.

Reconnect with old friends and teachers who’ve shaped your ASIJ journey. Swing by the middle school building to say hi to teachers like Mr. Richards and Ms. J. Just walking through the middle school commons and seeing the bright yellow lockers will surely bring back some nostalgic memories.

Before graduating, be sure to try out some new kiosk items. The latest additions, like the pretzel donut and curry pan, seem to be worth a taste. However, let’s be honest: we will always find ourselves missing those iconic Friday cookies. And don’t forget to stop by the Mustang Market. While the plaid pajama pants are already a fan favorite, plenty of other items, like ASIJ-branded chopsticks, will help you carry a piece of our school wherever you go.

3. Develop Healthy Habits

For many of us, the coming year holds a lot of independence. Even if you’re not planning to move away or go to university, leaving high school opens the door to a new chapter. Gone will be the days of waking up early, catching the bus, going to class, and hitting repeat. Instead, you’ll have much more freedom. While that’s amazing and allows you to pursue what you’re passionate about, it can also be a challenge. If you’re anything like me, you like having a little structure. So now, it’s time to create your own.

While “senioritis” might tempt you to let things slide, maintaining some time management and organization skills now will make that heavy college workload feel much easier later. As Mr. Baum explained, think of it like staying in shape for a sport. If you stop practicing, jumping back in will feel rough. 

Beyond school, take time to master the little life skills we sometimes overlook. Left the dishes in the sink? A few hours later, they’re magically clean. Tossed your laundry in the hamper? It’s folded and back in your room. Well, I hate to break it to you, but no magical chore fairies are waiting in college or adulthood. Take the time now to learn the basics. Ask a parent or an older sibling, or even consult YouTube to figure out the ins and outs of laundry—what can go in the dryer and why separating colors is actually a thing. Learn how to avoid rookie mistakes like shrinking your favorite sweater or dyeing everything pink.

And don’t forget about cooking! Compile a little cookbook or ask your loved ones for favorite recipes and tips. Learning how to whip up a warm meal isn’t just practical; it’s a chance to make cherished memories with your loved ones. One day, you’ll be making your go-to meal in your tiny dorm or first apartment, smiling as you remember where you learned it.

4. Spend Time with Those You Love

While it might sound cliché, alums repeatedly echo the same line: spend these last few months surrounded by friends, family, and the people who matter most to you. Plan at least one monthly event with your friends that everyone can look forward to. Visit Disney, go ice skating, host a sleepover, catch a movie, or even just grab a coffee. When you look back on this time 20 years from now, these little moments will matter the most.

As for your parents, they’re probably looking ahead to the coming months and realizing their little kid is all grown up. So spend time with them; they’ve been by your side for the past 18 years. Cook them a meal, listen to their life lessons (you might actually learn something), and just enjoy their company.

And if you have younger siblings, now’s your chance to impart your own “big sibling” wisdom. Whether it’s life lessons or silly advice, it’ll remind them of you when you’re not around and, hopefully, keep them from missing you too much.

So, seniors, at the end of this school year, we will have to say goodbye to a lot of things and a lot of the people we know and love. So take the chance to savor these moments. Make these next 100 and something days count.