By DYLAN CHAVEZ, Staff Writer
As their first year of high school nears its end, some freshmen look back at all that has occurred this year and reflect on their growth.From learning about the opportunities that high school offers, to registering for upcoming classes, and to finally having the firsthand experience of being a typical high school student, there has already been a noticeable change of how students originally perceived high school before the school year started to now, as they prepare to finish the year.
“I have been more confident in high school because teachers are more reassuring and actually give you study material,” said freshman Giselle Flores. “This has made me more confident in my work and tests.” Flores believes that she has more resources to strive and be successful in her classes. She also believes that this will serve a beneficial cause in the long run due to how she can apply this knowledge to future classes.
“[This year has] allowed me to meet new people and have a basis for which classes on what I want to take [in the future],” said freshman Max Stokes. Stokes was in the marching band in the fall and had a good experience with being involved with it. It has allowed him to collaborate with other students and develop connections and as the year progressed, it has allowed him to explore more of what was currently offered.
When asked about extracurricular activities, other students had similar opinions. Optimism still played a key emotion while students were balancing extracurriculars and schoolwork, all while maintaining their dedicating effort.
“[Freshman year has] completely changed my life by giving me new experiences like sports and leadership roles, and truly taught me how to live as a better person among others,” said Matthew Ferrin. Ferring participated in marching band and played soccer in the fall, and having these two activities while being a student established a tight schedule. He said he has learned valuable leadership skills, which is a vital role for others who may look up to other peers for guidance or reassurance.
“[Some of my goals and plans are] to keep up my grades and be comfortable with taking more advanced classes, [as well as] to stay involved with activities in school,” said freshman Nicholas Triglianos. Triglianos is involved with several schoolwide activities, including being a part of Northwood athletics and being involved with HOSA.
“[I liked] the parades from marching band,” said freshman Vern Jones. “It really helped me have fun with people I enjoy being around doing something I love.” In addition to having a valuable experience, Jones also shared a piece of advice for other students, particularly for those who are starting the same process from transitioning from a middle schooler to a freshman as a rising sophomore: “[It’s essential] to keep yourself on top of your classwork, because colleges look at your [transcript from throughout] highschool.”