Freshman Impressions and Senior Advice

With a new school year comes a new wave of incoming freshmen- “fresh” out of middle school and ready to take on the big leagues of high school. This year, approximately 182 students make up the class of 2028. On August 26th, the first day of class, freshmen came in two hours before everyone else for what is called “New Riverhawk Day”.
Many newcomers can feel overwhelmed by this big change. It can be scary adjusting to a new environment. But it can also be a great chance to make new friends and take advantage of trying out for extracurriculars and clubs. Here’s what some of the freshmen think of high school so far.
“I think it’s been pretty fun so far,” said Addie Larsen, “Very chaotic and energetic, but fun.”
Other students are in the middle.
“It’s been weird and a little bit annoying, but I like it way more than the middle school,” says Bella Riordan.
Still others, like Dominik Lamping, don’t like it as much. “It’s been boring and not fun at all.”
As you can see, there are differing opinions. High school is different for every student, and that’s the beauty of it. Speaking from experience, as I am now a senior, I know what you’re thinking. Harder classes, more homework, a bigger building.
Still though, these opinions can change. As of yet, you haven’t even experienced your first homecoming and all the festivities that come with it. These milestones will change how you feel. And as you move through your high school years, you will get more and more comfortable. But for now, it’s only the third week, and it’s best to just take it day by day.
When I was a freshman, all three years ago, I know that the one thing I would have liked was help from the kids that have been here longer than me. That’s the best thing to do for the freshmen coming to the school. Make them feel comfortable and help them out when needed.
If there was one piece of advice I would give incoming freshmen, it would be to take it slow and enjoy it all while it lasts. When people say high school goes by fast, they mean it. Take lots of pictures, write down special moments- even the everyday ones, take advantage of opportunities, and most importantly, make memories.