It is finally that time of the school year, when everyone gets anxious and excited about their classes for next year. Even future freshmen, still in 8th grade, are already picking their classes for when they arrive at Olympia in August. There are so many personal and, of course, academic factors that come in play with course selection. Let’s find out what strategies are recommended or personally used during this excitingly-stressful time.
When freshman Emily Payne was asked if she had any specific ways of picking her classes for next year, she said, “Well I’m a part of APEX, so I just follow the route I’m supposed to.” She went on to explain how the program essentially pushes you to challenge yourself and keep on an evenly vigorous academic path. This is definitely a great program to be a part of if you enjoy higher-level classes. However, some people prefer to pick their classes based on more personalized interests. For instance, sophomore Rachell Soto-Lopez wants to, “try and pick things that I’m interested in and will benefit me in the future.” She went on to give examples of classes that she can take now that relate to the ultrasound-technician career she wants to achieve after high school.
As for the counselors, Mr. Perotti and Mrs. Krajnyak shared their own suggestions and tips for students picking their classes.
Mr Perotti started off by saying that, “before you predict the future, you have to understand the past”, referring to student’s current grades and how they’re impacting their stress level. This is because the possible stress that your schedule is currently bringing you might be too much. Knowing this gives you an idea of how you can reduce your stress in the future.
Your current performance level also plays a huge role in what you should pick. For example, if you are currently taking an honors history class and you find yourself struggling, picking an AP history class for next year is probably not the best course of action for you. Mr. Perrotti also brought up the importance of connecting your life outside of school to your schedule, leaving time for jobs and sports. He summed up what your choice breakdown should involve saying, “pick classes that you enjoy, that you will learn something from, and, most importantly, ones that will prepare you to take the steps necessary after high school”.
When speaking with Mrs. Krajnyak, The Oracle asked why the classes you pick matter and how they impact you throughout your high school career. She stated, “I feel, when you pick those classes it paves the way for the future, and those decisions down the line. But, if you don’t make the right choices in the beginning, it may not set you up for what you [want to] do later on in life”.
Throughout their interviews, both counselors continuously referenced the future of not only student’s education but more importantly their personal lives, which students should definitely keep in mind. Even if you don’t yet have a set plan for what you want to do, choose your classes being mindful of the viable future you see for yourself. Mrs. Krajnyak also recommends that students should actually challenge themselves with the courses of their choice. That will help them reach their potential, while still not stressing them out with anything they aren’t capable of.
Good luck to everyone with their course selection, be mindful of what you pick, and make sure you create a schedule you won’t only learn from, but one that you will truly enjoy. Always put your mental health first, and never underestimate your academic abilities.
