As the high school year comes to an end, freshmen, sophomores, and juniors are often filled with excitement and uncertainty about their future. While some may have clear plans, others may be unsure about what they want to do next. 

It is a time for exploration and self-discovery. Freshmen can use the summer to take on new hobbies or interests that they may not have had time for during the school year. They can also start thinking about their future and what they want to achieve in high school. Setting goals and creating a plan for their academic and extracurricular activities can help freshmen stay on track and make the most of their high school experience.

“During COVID-19 it was hard to stay on track, the world was in such a bad place and the fact that I wasn’t able to see my best friend and had to do online school was all bad. Everyone had their own mix and it made it really hard to have a normal high school experience. Now being a junior I’m back on the horse but nonetheless it was difficult,” junior Ryan Demos said. 

Sophomores are no longer the new kids on the block, and they have a better understanding of what high school is all about. They can use the summer to explore potential career paths and research colleges or universities they may be interested in attending. They can also start thinking about taking on leadership roles in their extracurricular activities or volunteering in their community. By taking these steps, sophomores can start building a strong foundation for their future.

“I’m especially excited for my junior year. I want that challenge and I live riding that wave of the challenge,” sophomore Abigail Gerstel said. 

Juniors are often the busiest of the three grades, as they are preparing for their final year of high school and thinking about what comes next. Juniors can use the summer to start preparing for college applications by researching potential schools, working on their essays, and studying for standardized tests. They can also start thinking about their future career paths and exploring internships or job shadowing opportunities. By using the summer to prepare for their future, juniors can set themselves up for success in their final year of high school.

“After going through my junior year, especially with it being the hardest, I’m ready to relax with the summer and with a laid back senior year,” junior Collin Mallory said. 

After high school, freshmen, sophomores, and juniors all have a variety of options available to them. Some may choose to attend a traditional four-year college or university, while others may opt for community college, trade school, or a gap year. It’s important for each individual to weigh their options and choose a path that aligns with their interests and goals. It’s also important to continue learning and growing, whether that’s through continuing education, job training, or personal development.

Regardless of what path they choose, freshmen, sophomores, and juniors can all take steps now to prepare for their future. This includes setting goals, exploring potential career paths, and building a strong foundation through academic and extracurricular activities. By taking these steps, they can ensure that they are on the right track to achieving their dreams and building a successful future.