As the 2025-26 school year comes to a close, there’s much to think about – finals, summer assignments, maybe just a vacation. Either way, June is a great time to reflect on all you’ve completed in the year prior! One way I try to is looking back on goals I set for myself, and compare them to my performance during school (or just as a person).
The end of this year feels different somehow. Even though this is my third year here, it felt like a whole new experience moving from middle to high school.
To be honest I was really nervous to start freshman year after hearing from some people how big the switch was. I was expecting to be swimming in assignments with little to no sleep, but in reality, this was the most enjoyable year of school for me yet!
There is definitely more freedom that comes with moving up to ninth grade – you are more responsible for yourself, your assignments, and especially study materials. During class, you are usually given instructions rather than examples, which was something I had to get used to.
I also saw my friends a lot less this year, during classes that is. With the addition of non-rotating electives in your schedule, it is likely you will see less of your closest friends if they choose to spend their time on something else. Even so, we always made sure to catch up during lunch!
The workload was absolutely a shift too. Especially during the beginning of the year, I had a lot of trouble keeping up with due dates and prioritizing all of my assignments. This was a year I really had to rethink my time management.
When September started, I thought the rest of my time in school would be nonstop work and sadness. Now that the year is over, that couldn’t have been further from the truth. Being in high school brings so many new opportunities and activities to enjoy with friends.
An example of this is that I joined our marching band this year. Now a member of the Cavo Color Guard, it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made. Our trip to Virginia was some of the most fun I’ve had in my life. I got to spend a jam-packed weekend away performing, going on roller coasters, and seeing so many new things. There, I was also able to make new friends, who have grown to be a big part of my life. That trip showed me both independence and teamwork, and the best memories I could have made.
If I were to give any advice, I doubt you haven’t heard it before:
Stay organized – this is absolutely not a strong suit of mine but it does help a lot when it comes to having all your resources in one place and not having to stress about finding that one worksheet from a week ago you need to review for a test. Using your locker also helps a lot. Even though I don’t use it before every period, it can be helpful to switch out binders or books you don’t need that day to reduce clutter.
Ask questions where you can – this isn’t specific to high school but it is something I’ve noticed over years. If you are starting a new unit in a class or even reviewing for a test, don’t be afraid to raise your hand if you are confused because when you see that question you got wrong on the quiz, you’ll wish you asked for clarification.
Have fun but don’t get too involved – extracurriculars are one of the best parts about EHS; I mean, you get to do what you love with friends to laugh with, what’s not to like? While it may sound tempting to join as much as you can in high school (whether it be to look good on a resume or to fill your schedule), it may not be the best idea to pile everything at once. Adjusting from junior to senior high is a big switch, so having too many extra things on top of that isn’t always easy. Make sure you still have time to do your homework!
I am really grateful for all that has happened this year – what I’ve experienced, who I’ve met, and what I can bring into future years. I can only hope for the best for myself and my friends as we continue into our next year at EHS. Go Cavos!
