Dear underclassmen,
Whether you’re a freshman or a junior, you’ve still got a ways to go, and each school year will come with unexpected obstacles. As “The Hawk Eye” seniors depart from high school, we shared some words of wisdom for rising students.
Lily Andersson:
The hardest part of doing anything is starting it. Some things might seem scary, difficult and confusing, but as soon as you take the first step, the rest of the way is simple: one foot in front of the other. If it doesn’t seem simple, that’s OK, just focus on the next step in front of you.
Felipe Castro:
High school flies by quicker than you know it. Make sure you do something that you’ll look back on fondly. Enjoy life, enjoy this unique experience and enjoy the people you are surrounded by. Make sure you won’t regret these next few years.
Krista Fleming:
If you set your mind to it, you can do it. Sometimes, it will be hard; other times, it will feel impossible. Even if you lose your way, don’t lose your footing. Keep trying. The results will speak for themselves so long as you keep going.
Andrew Higgins:
High school gets scarier the longer you are in it. First, it’s grades, then SAT scores, then college visits and applications. It’s a lot, but don’t stress yourself out over things you cannot control. You are a teenager, so have fun and give attention to your social life; do what you need to be OK.
Peyton Kuschmeider:
Nothing you do will be easy. Everything you do in high school will come with its own set of challenges, but it’s important to never give up on yourself. Keep pushing when things get hard; it’s worth the fight in the end.
Gavin Lambert:
Remember to take time for yourself. Allow yourself to decompress, and don’t envelop yourself in work. Hang out with friends, take the classes you want and make sure you’re taking care of your mental health. Don’t bottle it all up until it boils over and you do something you regret. Make sure you have people you can trust and you know you can talk to.
Hannah Mathew:
Don’t hesitate to do what you love. Having passion for things will work to your benefit. It is OK to feel inexperienced or nervous. Picking up new things is hard but not impossible. Take time to do what you are interested in — you won’t regret it.
Saahir Mawani:
Allow yourself to jump off the deep end and try something new. It may feel weird at first, but remember that you aren’t losing anything. Experiences add color to your life, and a few odd colors make a beautiful landscape.
Shiren Noorani:
That random freshman sitting next to you in geometry could become your best friend. Don’t be afraid to open up to new people. You’re in the same building as thousands of others every day for four years — surround yourself with those who understand you. Sometimes it’s the unexpected people who will come into your life and make even the darkest days feel bright.
High school is a chapter in everyone’s lives, and we all have something unique to share, but it’s up to you on how to fill the pages.
Sincerely,
“The Hawk Eye” seniors
