LOS ALAMITOS, CA — After a chaotic few months, the first semester is finally coming to an end. From day one I was quick to realize high school quite literally takes almost any depiction of what you expect of it and throws it right out the window. From registration to preparing for finals week for the first time, it is very clear that high school is far from anticipated.

The realization of having not only freshmen but also sophomores, and in some cases juniors and seniors, in my classes, felt uneasy at first. While the change took a bit to get used to, I managed to get to know more people outside of my comfort zone and branch out a bit. It felt weird knowing there were both students applying to college and other students like me who are fresh out of middle school in my classes, but it also felt like a perfect opportunity to meet new people.

Classes were also organized differently. Less frequently than tests, quizzes were more commonly referred to as examinations. We are also given greater responsibility for our work and given adult-like treatment rather than that of youngsters. It was unexpected yet nice since it seemed like a significant step.

Phone caddies were new but easily adaptable. After not being able to use phones at all in general, watching people pull out their phones after class. At first, it felt weird being able to freely listen to music and check messages during passing periods, lunch, or nutrition. This free ability definitely creates a more positive environment of knowing that the ability to use a phone is there but understanding where and when it is appropriate.

School spirit and dances were very new and different than expected. Football games, which are a much bigger deal, especially when it comes to wearing spirit colors, were much more powerful. Spirit weeks are more common than they were in middle school and lots of people actually participate and have fun with it. School dances such as homecoming were much better thought through and planned. From the dance floor and games to the security to make sure everyone was safe, things were much more exciting. 

Finals coming up are definitely more important and worth much more of our grades than expected. Typically worth 100 or more points, these tests show how much you understand from the entire semester, which feels very intimidating. Luckily, the school has many opportunities to study and make sure everyone is ready which I am thankful for. 

Along with the ups and downs, the First semester has been a huge success and while adapting to a new environment is never easy, the bright people surrounding me have made everything easier and more adaptable. Expected or not, I believe we are all looking forward to an amazing second semester in January.

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