As high school draws to a close for many teens, a sense of excitement ripples through the student body. The mingled feelings of enthusiasm at embracing something new and apprehension at leaving the safety of high school behind have brought an electric quality to the mundane nature of everyday life.
Though many regard high school graduation as the beginning of their lives, the past four years are not to be left in the dust. All too frequently, students try to race through the high school years, counting down the days until they are no longer required to pass through the sometimes judgmental halls of their alma mater. However, this only contributes to some looking back and thinking, “I could have done more.” High school is the time to explore interests, make friends and learn about oneself.
Options of things to do are endless. Why not try out a club or two? Clubs are the perfect place to spend time with those who share similar interests. From e-gaming to Junior Statesmen of America to Invisible Children, there is something out there for everyone. If athletics are a better fit, try out for a sport. Even if you do not make it, at least you have the satisfaction of having tried.
The list continues on and is highly personalized for each person. The only thing that matters is that one does not have that tinge of regret at the end of senior year. No one wants to fill out their college applications and see all those blank lines representing the empty years of their life that could have meant something.
Ashley Williams will be a junior at Steele Canyon High School in Rancho San Diego in the fall.
High school teachers, do you want to see your students get published? For information on the Voices column, which is also a blog written by high school students, contact Sharon A. Heilbrunn at sharon.heilbrunn@uniontrib.com.
