Throughout high school, it was easy for us students to complain about a number of things. From the “colossal” amounts of homework that were on our plate (little did we know what college would bring), to juggling our time between friends, work, and sports, there always seemed to be something to criticize. Moreover, by senior year, we were perpetually in a tunnel, with college as the light leading us out of the so-called hell hole that was high school. Because of this, it was easy for us to neglect all the really great people and opportunities that we crossed paths with as a result of these four years. We graduated and literally sprinted for our various colleges excited for where our futures were headed.
Coming to college was a big step for us all. From the handfuls of new people we encounter, to the new environment not yet explored, or from the unique experiences we are enveloped in, there are so many factors influencing this new stage in our life. Now with all of this change, we were forced to factor in a whole new level of academia, having our professors expect more out of us and to having to study all hours of the night. While this was at first extremely intimidating, it has also been an opportunity for me to reflect and truly appreciate all that my teachers throughout high school did for me. Not only were we expected to put in high levels of work in everything that was assigned, but we were expected to be fully present and active in class discussions and activities.
Yes our teachers pushed us and yes they expected the best in us, but it was more than just this academic integrity instilled in us that made these teachers truly valuable in our lives. For one thing, teachers within our high schools doubled as confidants and role models for us to talk with and to gain wisdom from, as they always stressed how much they cared for each of us. They were constant mentors within our lives who demanded our excellence yet continually exchanged their guidance.
High school is a tumultuous experience. From the boy drama to the stress of AP exams to high school rivalries, there always seems to be an immense amount of pressure put on our shoulders. However, throughout all this chaos, we could always out on our teachers for being consistent in their lessons and their wisdom.
Now we may not have recognized it at the time, but just through our interactions with these teachers, we were honing in skills that would be valuable for us in the years to come.
If it hadn’t been for my teachers, I wouldn’t truly recognize how important it is to prioritize my education and to efficiently manage my time. If it hadn’t been for my teachers, I wouldn’t have realized why being part of a community truly makes an enormous difference on how we experience our lives. If it hadn’t been for my teachers, I would be scared to speak my mind, not only in the classroom, but within any situation I find myself in. If it hadn’t been for my teachers, I would not appreciate the extent to which every action influences who I am and who I want to be.
These are all lessons that have stuck with me as I have transitioned into college, and which still are vital to me in fully appreciating all the opportunities that come my way. Yes, going off to college is a thrilling experience and we learn so much about ourselves. Yet, without these values that have been drilled into our beings by these teachers throughout these years, we would not be prepared for our future, or anywhere near as successful. Thanks to these great influencers, we have a solid foundation to grow from, and a world of opportunity in our midst.
