Graduation. It’s one word that every student can’t wait for, until it actually gets here.
There are so many different things that go on, such as receiving cap and gowns, senior photos, the senior walk, adjusted exam schedules, and absence make up. This is a big step that occurs in order to enter the next chapter of your life, but is everyone ready for this step?
As a current senior, who is entirely too overwhelmed, I have some advice for the underclassmen who will be in my shoes within the next year or few years.
My first piece of advice is to check your email!
You don’t want to miss out on countless opportunities because you were too lazy to check your email. Every morning when you come to school, make it a habit to check it as soon as you open your Chromebook. If your computer is dead, an excuse I have used many times before, use your phone! We both know it’s always with you.
Next up, enroll in the fun classes, too. Don’t be worried about just doing your required classes and then leaving for the day. Although it is super nice, as someone who only had one class this year, you can actually miss out on some fun classes Carolina Forest has to offer.
I spent my whole senior year taking seven dual enrollment classes. This was very beneficial as dual enrollment courses are a good GPA booster, but they can become extremely stressful. Although the course can become stressful with a heavy workload, they are good preparation for college. I would totally recommend dual enrollment to all students but make sure that the college you want to attend will accept the course transfer.
My final and most important piece of advice is simply to remember to have fun.
Enjoy your high school years; it will go by so fast. I thought I would have all the time in the world to experience and push through my senior year. Boy, was I wrong. There was so much I missed out on because I was too worried about other things. Take it from me, there will be plenty of time in the future to do those things. Hanging out with your friends before you all leave for college, not so much. Attend the games, go to Homecoming, dress up for spirit weeks, go to our musicals and plays, be a part of clubs and honors societies. Many forget that time is limited; don’t waste what little time you do have.
I am both honored and so sad to say that my senior year has come to an end. I have decided to go to HGTC next year, majoring in nursing. Although I am leaving Carolina Forest, I am so thankful for the time I have had: being editor of The Prowler, spending time with Mrs. Aubry and Ms. Tinker’s kiddos, attending the classes that would push me to go to school, and attending the football games I dressed up to the nines for. I also want to give a shout out to the teachers who pushed me to be the best I could be and all the amazing people I have met along the way!
So, this is my advice to all underclassmen, as well as my goodbye to Carolina Forest. Thank you for the memories. Remember to make the most out of what you have and that once a Panther, always a Panther!
