The most pivotal periods of a high school student’s life are freshman and senior year. Freshman year is exciting; it is something knew. Freshman are happy to have completed middle school, and embark on a new journey called high school. I remember my freshman year as if it was yesterday. I was joyful to meet new people, make new friends, and most importantly continue receiving an education.
I have always loved going to school. Even as a little girl I made sure to be ready on time to ride the bus to school. One of my most memorable moments are my four years of high school. Now, as a college freshman I reflect on my years of high school, and how I wish I would have enjoyed it more than I did. While I participated in various extra-curricular activities, I often wish I would have balanced teen fun and academics. Though I was well focused on academics, I paid little attention to my social/recreational time outside of school, especially during senior year. I was only focused on excelling in current classes, college application process, scholarships, etc.
Before leaving for college my spiritual mother lovingly said, “You will be equally as happy to come home during breaks as you are now that you are leaving.” I smiled at her not knowing what she meant, however I knew I would soon find out.
My first semester at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette was a learning experience; From being forced to resign from various organizations due to taking up a part-time job, to studying and completing assignments every minute I can, made me realize that I was an adult. It was from that moment that the meaning of my mother’s words hit me like a train coming 200 miles per hour.
Throughout high school my Spiritual mom would tell me to take it easy, enjoy being a teenager, have fun responsibly, and learn new things. I took her words into consideration, but never acted upon them. I was so concentrated on academia that I forgot to enjoy being a teenager. Before I left for college my mother was telling me to enjoy not having adult responsibilities while I can.
Dear high school students, here is a word of advice, enjoy high school while you can, do not neglect academics, but have fun. It is possible to balance academics and recreational time, I had an option to do it but chose not to; however, I have friends from high school who did.
Now, as a college sophomore I reminisce on how my life was before high school graduation. I miss having free textbooks, electronic devices, and other learning aids at my reach. Even though I went to prom junior and senior year, I wish I would have went to homecoming, talent shows, and other school events as well. When the opportunity arose, I wish I would have spent more time with my friends.
Moreover, enjoy high school years while you can. Be patient, relax and enjoy your time as a teenager because once those years are gone, they never come back!
