Hindsight is 20/20: 3 Things Seniors Wish They Knew as Freshmen

As we enter our last year of high school, I asked some seniors what they wished they knew as freshmen. Most of the students placed emphasis on the importance of maintaining a good GPA, joining clubs and activities and making the most of everyday. I noticed that many students had underestimated how important it is and how much effort is needed to be successful not only in high school, but in all of one’s endeavors.

1) Learn TIME MANAGEMENT

Many students, like Cristal Pernetti, wish that they had better time managing skills right off the bat. Freshmen enter high school and receive a rude awakening after the comforts of middle school. As the work piles up, it becomes harder and harder to manage it, especially if you substitute homework time with video games once in a while. Time management is key, so try to plan your day efficiently.

2) Maintain a healthy GPA

Senior Jesse Sifre explained to me how AP classes boost one’s GPA, which is really important. “GPA” is a new term for freshmen, but as you enter the college application process, they become a deciding factor in the rest of your life (well, the next few years anyway). A high GPA also makes college more affordable since you can then apply for merit scholarships.

Similarly, Matthew Viola advises freshman to do all their homework, as it has a huge impact on grades. Many teachers give homework assignments to help boost your grade. It is an easy way to get full points for something (especially if it’s just questions and practice) so not doing it does not actually make sense.

Another easy way to help your grades, according to advice from Jojo Robinson, is to take better notes and enjoy each moment in the classroom. Attitude is everything and if you’re willing to put in the work, you’ll make your life easier down the road.

3) Get INVOLVED

KayCee Armstrong and Alyssa Bauer, both active students of the school community, emphasized the importance of joining sports and clubs earlier on in your years of high school. Not only will 4 years of continuous involvement “look good” for colleges, it also allows you to meet new people and interact with peers outside of the classroom.

As for myself, I couldn’t wait to finish high school and “be a grown up”. I am still so excited for college, but at the same time, I don’t want high school to end. I look back on my four years and realize how fast they flew by. It only feels like yesterday that I was getting ready for my first day of freshman year. I wish I had been able to tell myself and understand that a not-so-great day at school, was only bad if I didn’t make it better. But at the end of the day, I don’t wish anything to have been different, because every person I have encountered, every teacher, and every experience, has formed me into the person I am today. And I wouldn’t want to have it any other way.