For many high school students, graduation culminates in the next chapter of their lives in the form of college. Deciding what life holds after high school is a daunting task, so how did Trinity High School’s Class of 2024 take on this challenge and face their biggest college fears?
For the Senior Class, these fears were no different from those of their predecessors’ challenges. From deciding where to apply to choosing which university to commit to, these difficult decisions had to be faced head-on with determination, courage and confidence.
As students navigate their high school careers, one of the most prevalent questions they are asked seems to be, “What are you going to be when you grow up?” While some have a goal they’ve set for themselves early on, many have this question lingering in their minds for what seems to be forever before they decide what career they will take on after graduation. As for seniors, as well as other students who seem to avoid this question due to reasonable fear, do not dwell on trying to answer. Universities offer the opportunity to switch majors during the school year as well as the choice to choose an undecided major for those struggling to figure it all out.
When students begin to apply to schools during their junior or senior years, deciding where to apply to is another challenging task that most believe needs to be answered as soon as possible. This is a completely reasonable fear as many factors go into this decision, such as location, cost and majors. However, keep in mind that there is still plenty of time to give this decision as much thought as necessary.
As for those struggling with the idea of adjusting to college life, remember that living in a new environment is difficult for everyone and that it takes time to make new friends and get used to a new life. Although attending college provides a new and unfamiliar environment, there are tons of new experiences awaiting incoming students. University life is all about meeting new people and learning how to adapt to new situations.
Trinity alumnae and former staff member of The Hiller, Emma Riddell, comments, “I’m introverted, so naturally I was nervous about making friends. But as soon as I got to campus and started getting involved with things that interested me, like the dance ensemble or Bible study, I found that there were so many people who were into the same things I was.”
Riddell also advises seniors to take time to appreciate the very last moments of their high school experience inside the halls of Trinity High School. Countless seniors experience senioritis, but it’s important to not let this weigh down the rest of any student’s time before graduation. The Class of 2024 has devoted so much of their time to receiving that diploma, so take a moment to appreciate it!
“Remember to take a moment and breathe. No one actually expects you to have your entire life figured out right now. Enjoy the last few months of your high school experience, and don’t forget to thank any especially impactful teachers who have inspired you along the way!” Riddell adds.