With the fourth quarter fast approaching, many Oak Hills seniors are about to enter the last quarter of their high school career. I asked some of these seniors about their feelings going into the fourth quarter, and they shared some good memories, hopes for the future, and words of advice.
Many people stressed the importance of joining clubs and getting involved in the Oak Hills community. When asked what their favorite part of high school has been, most answers aligned with Caylee Perkins, who responded, “Getting to experience school with fun activities, amazing staff, and good peers.” Similarly, an anonymous senior answered, “Meeting all of my friends and making memories.”
The fourth quarter is full of many fun opportunities, especially for seniors. Ali Klemann shared that she is excited for “graduation and the fun activities with [her] senior class.” Correspondingly, Emma Brunner mentioned that she is “looking forward to not really taking any exams, getting to do fun things that seniors get to do, the walk, [her] art field trips and graduation.”
Even though there is much to look forward to in the upcoming months, some seniors are nervous about leaving high school. “I used to be excited to graduate, but now it’s bittersweet.” said one, when asked how their attitude towards the fourth quarter has changed since freshman year. Another commented that “it’s much more exciting now that high school is completely over, but a little sad and bittersweet because we are all grown up.”
There are also things that many seniors would change about their high school career if given the opportunity to do it over again. Penny Roth shared that she “would join more clubs from the start of [her] high school career.” Caleb Longsdon shared that he “would take schoolwork more serious.”
When asked what advice they would give to lower grades, numerous seniors emphasized hard work during the short four years of high school but also placed significance on enjoying the time while it lasts. One anonymous student advised, “Don’t give up. It’s only a few years of your whole life and they shape the rest of it. Keep pushing, you’re okay to give yourself mental breaks, but remember that these years fly by and to take advantage of the opportunities you’re granted.” Additionally, Ethan Evans said, “Find ways to apply yourself in the school because it makes things so much more enjoyable, and to enjoy your time because these 4 years pass by fast!”
There is no doubt that as we transition into another quarter, our seniors are getting ready to transition out of high school life. Their responses detailed the great experiences made at Oak Hills, and their feelings towards graduation remind us to cherish this time while it lasts. We wish them luck as they prepare to leave Oak Hills and start a new chapter of their lives.
