When we think of high school some tend to grow nervous, excited, and sometimes dread the idea. But what is the actual reality of high school? Is it really as bad or as great as some imagine or say? What is the difference between high school and our previous years? There are some who naturally fall into a groove once they arrive in high school. 

“I love making new friends,” Madden Nobles, a freshman at Hughson High, stated. “I feel comfortable in the high school environment.” Nobles added, “ I enjoy volleyball, dances and other school events.” 

In contrast some have trouble adjusting to high school and falling into that same groove. It doesn’t appear to be so easy and stress free for everyone.

“I had less worries in middle school, it was easier. I constantly worry about searching for classes and homework,” Caleb Parshall, a freshman at Hughson High, explained. Caleb goes on to say, “I have trouble managing time between school and sports.”

Some people fall in between the extremes. Landon Peterson, a freshman at Hughson High feels like it is more of the same. “There are some new people but classes and schedules are the same. Nothing is much easier and nothing is harder.” 

But how is it seen from someone who has experienced it all? How great or bad is it? What truly is the reality of high school? What should we be excited about or be careful for?

Jacqueline Garcia, a senior at Hughson High would describe high school as fun, stressful, and mostly bittersweet. She had attended all four years at Hughson High, which she enjoyed. “I built lifelong relationships,” Garcia stated. “Junior year was my favorite because I got more involved and included.” “Homecoming of 2021 was my favorite, it was a combination of stress and excitement. I always went to powder puff practice and float building, which was all fun. But I had some trouble managing time with work.” 

Garcia continued by saying, “In middle school it’s more carefree, you enjoy what you have and don’t look at the bigger picture.” “Friendships begin to change and bigger groups become smaller.” Garcia also mentioned, “I also disliked the drama, past friendships created some troubles during high school.” 

Garcia noted, “Managing time with work and school also became stressful.” Garcia concluded by saying, “High school had its sweet moments but definitely its bitter moments as well.”