Imagine the sounds of students gathering and laughing with their friends, as the teachers are already prepared with their materials and learning tools. The administrators are busy making sure everyone gets to class on time when the bell rings as the principal walks around seeing everyone get ready to take on the new school year. This is the exciting picture we see in our school yard from year to year and this time is no exception.
As the new year begins, students are filled with emotion and anticipation, setting goals and making plans to make this year truly unforgettable. Here’s what Olympia Titans think about their upcoming year.
Goals and Aims:
“This year my goals are to participate in all the school activities, like Homecoming, Prom, and football games, and keep my grades up.” senior Avani Rajan said.
This is a shared goal for many students. While everyone sets their sights on getting straight A’s, the amount of work required for that can sometimes be overwhelming. Spending time at events, like HOCO or Prom, can offer a balance between the workload and relaxation and foster new connections along the way.
“I aim to have more of a presence in not only doing my own thing, like coding a video game, but also communicating efficiently with friends and knowing how to open up more with my feelings, as well as letting go and having fun with conversation.” junior Stefano Cestero stated.
A Successful School Year:
Along with goals and aims, figuring out what to do to make this a successful year for students is a key component of back to school. Students should possibly try approaching studying in a different way, or working together with different strategies that suit everyone. Ensuring a plan for the school year will ease minds throughout the year, allowing for organization as you navigate new experiences.
“I think what would make this a successful school year, apart from meeting those goals, is to listen to myself. Especially with the academics I’m taking, I’m trying to emphasize knowing my limits and cutting myself slack.” sophomore Ava Petroski declared. “I don’t have to be perfect all the time. I’m also going to try to not ignore my feelings and remember that each is valid and real. And most importantly, be myself!!! And if that means taking a break when I need it, indulging in things I love, or being open about my problems to the people around me, so be it.”
The opinions and feelings of a person are one of the most important things in life. Listening to one’s feelings is important; ignoring them can lead to stress and confusion. So appreciating one’s self can definitely boost the mindset and increase awareness.
“A successful school year for me would be to pass all my classes,” junior Tahyra Torres-Arroyo stated.
Overall, having a successful school year can be interpreted differently by many people. But ensuring it will absolutely benefit anyone’s confidence and mental health.
Inspiration:
Inspiration is also an essential component of getting back to high school. Who or what are the students going to be looking up to for inspiration to get better grades? Will study groups form this year? There are many different ways a student can learn to be inspired as well.
“My hardworking friends inspire me to do better in my classes and study really hard.” Rajan stated.
Having a group of friends who care and study hard can help encourage a person to achieve their own goals too. Forming study groups is one of the best ways to ensure high grades. Collaborating and figuring out the mistakes together can help one eliminate common mistakes along with promoting friendship.
“What inspires me are the friends and people I know who have my back. Knowing that pushes me to be better and stronger.” sophomore Ava Petroski explained.
Friendship can have a positive impact on a student’s personal growth and endurance throughout the school year. Even when times are tough, chatting and texting with friends can make those dreary moments become more cheerful.
Socialization can play an essential role in enjoying your time in high school. Talking it out with people can help enhance mental strength and foster important connections throughout the community. We are all here to help each other, so don’t be afraid to reach out to your peers.
Overall, meeting new people and setting clear goals for oneself can have a tremendous impact on a student’s academic performance. Going back to school can help us reconnect with our past friends, make new ones, and become better versions of ourselves everyday.
