After years of hard work, struggles, and triumphs the 2017/18 AHS seniors have reached the final section of their journey through high school. Although this a time of distraction, with graduation, prom, college applications, and the inevitable ‘senioritis’, some seniors are determined to help younger students find a path that will carry them throughout AHS and beyond. During high school, every student usually discovers a unique method for handling school work while still balancing their lives. Seniors Ashley Soderberg, Nicole Buglione, Nick Tran, and Niko Cesark share what has helped them succeed and what to avoid in a world of stress and scheduling.

Ashley Soderberg:

Photo Courtesy of Ashley Soderberg

During the beginning of my freshman year, I struggled a lot with staying on top of schoolwork while still trying to maintain friendships and adapt to a new school. Over time my priorities began to affect my grades, and I was forced to adjust my life. One of the keys to high school is definitely having your priorities in order. For me, it became family first, schoolwork, and then social/sports. Without having order in your life, you will quickly fall off track.

Nicole Buglione:

Photo Courtesy of Nicole Buglione

When I first started high school, I always wanted to be at every event or party, even if it meant skipping homework or procrastinating studying. However, as the years have gone by I have learned that it’s okay to miss a party in order to study or do schoolwork. Having good grades and being able to pursue a career is much more important than a party that you won’t remember a month later. So keep your priorities in check.

Nick Tran:

Photo Courtesy of Nick Tran

I think that it’s important to stay calm and not overwork yourself. Don’t stress out about every single assignment because you will quickly forget about. Still work hard but try to have fun in high school and enjoy it while you can.

Niko Cesark:

Photo Courtesy of Niko Cesark

I think the most important thing to remember is that high school is the next step to your future, so take each opportunity you are given as it can lead to great reward. The kids who challenge themselves by taking advantage of IB classes or other extracurricular options will ultimately find themselves with more opportunities in the future. Get as much as you can out of high school, and it will pay off someday.

Although there are many ups and downs throughout high school, one day you will look back and think only about the good times. So enjoy it as much as you can, and hopefully, it will go by smoothly.