I’m so jealous of all my friends who are graduating from high school this month and next. While I’m freaking out over my grades and the SAT’s which I’m taking tomorrow, they’re done worrying about sub-par marks that could hurt their college resumes and are simply excited for graduation day. Roommates are being found, connections are being made- the whole process is en route. Meanwhile, I have another year till I’m at the point…that is, if I haven’t died from senioritis by the second week of twelfth grade. Basically, I just really wish that I, too, was preparing for a new chapter in my life.

However, the process has one aspect of which I’m anything but envious: the dilemma of what to do with one’s high school relationship after graduation. If you’re a senior in a relationship, or in a relationship with a senior, there are some tough decisions to be made. I’ve been there two different years with two different graduating boyfriends and, quite frankly, it sucks. So many questions run through your mind at once: is trying to keep my relationship alive worth the effort? Will my significant other think that I’m worth the effort? Should I even attempt to keep the flame alive knowing that there’s a possibilty of heartbreak?

These questions have run through the minds of countless girls and, believe it or not, they’ve run through the minds of many guys as well. Some people simply choose to give up on their relationships and go their separate ways. Others cling to each other, planning to attend the same college and be together forever. Even more try out the long distance “I’ll call you every day and visit once a month” deal, which can end in anything from a happy reunion at the end of four years to a chaotic breakup after three weeks. And then there are all sorts of other situations to be seen- I personally get a kick out of watching the couples who stick their heads in the sand and don’t talk about the future of their relationship at all (oh, denial, what a mess you make…).

I guess what it really all boils down to is whether or not you want your high school sweetheart to play a part in this new chapter of your life, and how committed you are to making that happen. Relationships are hard work, no doubt about it…but they should also be fulfilling. The bottom line is that your only responsibility in regards to this decision should be doing what makes you happiest. If that means splitting up with your partner, well, just remember that everything happens for a reason and try to move on. Or listen to Blink-182’s post-graduation break-up anthem “Going Away to College” on repeat and cry while downing a pint of Ben & Jerry’s. Whatever makes you happy:)