So you’ve finished up 12 years of painstaking education, late nights, early mornings, and everything in between. You’ve taken the exams, survived group projects, maybe even cried over a math final or two. Now it’s time for one last hurrah: Senior Week.
It sounds like the perfect combination, right? A beach house with your best friends, no parents, no homework, just freedom and fun before college, or whatever comes next. But before you pack your bags and set your sights on the sand, there are a few things every high school senior needs to know.
The Reality Behind the Hype
Senior Week isn’t just sunshine and selfies. While there are definitely great memories to be made, there are also real risks that people don’t talk about enough. Risks that you may be exposed to for the first time, like underage drinking, drug use, unsafe situations, and decisions that can follow you long after the fun ends.
The stories aren’t just rumors. Students have been injured, arrested, or worse during Senior Week because they assumed a risky situation “won’t happen to me.” And that’s what makes it dangerous: the assumption that nothing can go wrong.
For Howard County students, some of the popular destinations are Ocean City, Virginia Beach, and Rehoboth Beach. No matter where you go, their police department works hard to keep everyone safe, and they encourage both students and parents to be prepared and stay aware.
Here’s what they want you to know:
- There is zero tolerance for underage drinking. Getting caught intoxicated underage can result in serious legal consequences. It also puts you at risk of becoming a victim of a crime or making dangerous decisions.
- Drug laws are strictly enforced. Undercover officers conduct year-round buy-bust operations, especially in June. Don’t risk it.
- Stick with friends you know and trust. Only invite people you know well into your condo or hotel room. It’s not worth it to include strangers who might bring chaos.
- Busy roads in tourist areas are dangerous. Always use crosswalks. Walk the extra distance and wait for the signal because your safety matters more than a few saved seconds.
- Leave the car parked. Most beaches have a safe, reliable bus system. Using it helps avoid traffic stress and potential accidents, especially if impaired.
- Respect the noise ordinance. Loud or disruptive noise (especially between midnight and 7am) can lead to fines or worse. Don’t let one noisy night ruin your whole trip.
- Sleeping in cars or on the beach is illegal. It might seem adventurous, but it’s not allowed. Make sure your lodging plans are solid and safe.
Beyond the official rules, here are some common-sense tips every graduating senior should follow:
- Not everyone is partying hard. You’re not alone if you choose not to drink or use drugs. Plenty of students want to have a good time without the risks.
- Make a food plan. Bring snacks, water, and easy meals so you’re not constantly eating out and getting the nutrition you need, especially if you’re out in the sun.
- Wear sunscreen every day. Reapply often. You do not want to spend the week nursing a painful burn.
- Use the buddy system. Don’t go places alone, especially at night. Staying with trusted friends is one of the smartest ways to stay safe.
- Check in at home. Let someone like a parent or guardian know you’re okay. Before you leave, set up a code word or procedure for safely getting picked up with friends and family. It’s not about rules: it’s about having someone who cares on standby.
- Trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. You don’t have to go along with anything you’re uncomfortable with.
- Skip the under-21 clubs. They’re often overcrowded, dirty, and not as fun or safe as they sound.
- Plan real activities. Paddle boarding, mini golf, beach walks and stargazing! There are tons of fun things to do. And bring card games or board games for chill nights.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Others may be intoxicated or make poor decisions. Don’t let that affect you.
- Think before you post. Would you want a future employer or your parents to see it? If not, don’t hit “upload.”
- You don’t owe anyone anything. Peer pressure is real, but you are in charge of your choices. Always.
- Not sure about Senior Week? Consider planning a separate beach trip with close friends. Sometimes, a smaller, safer trip is a lot more fun and way less stressful.
Celebrate Smart
The point of Senior Week isn’t to impress anyone, it’s to celebrate how far you’ve come. So go have your week. Just do it smart. The best memories are the ones you don’t have to regret later.
Important Numbers
Ocean City Police: 410-723-6610
Virginia Beach Police: 757-385-4141
Rehoboth Beach Police: 302-227-2577
Sorry, comments are closed for this post.