Although you may think that there is a major difference between freshmen and seniors, they have a lot in common.
For example, anxiety. Anxiety is a defining factor in everybody no matter the age, or grade level along with transitional periods. Freshmen have the mindset of starting a new school and life while seniors have to prepare themselves for the real world.
Walking in freshman year, everyone seems older, taller, and more mature. Some even call them the “big kids”, while seniors are stressed about what they’re doing after graduation, if they’re set for life outside of high school, and if their major is what they want to do for the rest of their life.
With the first week of school ending, we asked a few freshmen how they felt. Anne Butterfield stated, “The first week was a lot different from what I’m used to. Going from the same 6 classes every day- in middle school, to switching between 8 different ones in high school was a big change. Along with how long the classes are.”
“My first week was pretty good.” says freshman, Valentina Gurrera. “I made tons of new friends, and I like how much time there is in between classes.
Senior year can also be a huge change. Not only is it their last year in high school, they’re going off to start a new life. Leaving teammates, friends, and family can be such a challenge because some aren’t used to being away from them for a long period, and it’s hard to settle in a new environment. Though senior year can be stressful, it can also be very exciting with all the festivities such as a senior prank, homecoming, prom, senior sunrise, and many more!
A freshman here at Coral Glades, Valentina Gurrera also stated that she likes- how much more freedom there is. “All of my teachers are nice, and they’re a lot more lenient than in middle school. I like high school so far, and I’ve had a great first week.”
Ninth and Twelfth graders go through the same academic pressure as well. For example, freshmen often try to adapt to high expectations, time management, and harder courses than in middle school. While seniors are dealing with college essays, final exams, and the aspiration to finish strong and graduate.
“I’m finally in my last year of high school !!!” says Jahaira Flores (senior). Jahaira also stated, “Yes this year comes with a lot of stress, and worrying about my future, but I am happy to end this journey and begin my new one.”
