As the 2020-21 school year comes to an end, many students find themselves reflecting on what an unconventional experience it has been. With the majority of freshmen having completed their first year of high school without stepping foot in the building, and the majority of seniors completing their last without getting a chance to take it all in, the past school year has been anything but normal. However, even in this uncertain time, the class of 2021 persevered and is now approaching the finish line with positivity and hope for the future.
“Despite the uncertainty and misfortune, I do not feel that this year was a failure,” said Jake Beyer, senior class president. “The common perception is that [COVID-19] ruined our senior year, and in many ways it did; but it gave us the perspective necessary to appreciate what we have and also find solutions to complex problems. This provided me with a lot of needed perspective and growth, so I think that this year was a success. In the face of the odds, we still managed to win championships, become leaders, learn, and organize class events. To me, that is incredible and indicates that this was perhaps one of the most crucial years in our school’s history.”
One of the major aspects of senior year is preparing for life after high school, whether that be to pursue higher education or enter the workforce. Despite this tough year, Freedom’s class of 2021 rose to the occasion and worked hard to get into their dream schools and majors.
“When it comes to the college application process, I’d say prepare ahead of time,” senior Ashley Edsall said. “I began drafting essays and essay topics in the summer and it saved me so much time when I started applying to colleges. You can also prepare a list of your extracurriculars and what they helped you with and did for you. Give yourself time to get things done so that you don’t stress yourself out and can enjoy the beginning of your senior year as much as possible.”
Now, as their high school chapter comes to a close, seniors reminisce the memories and approach the future with equal parts uncertainty and excitement.
“I am nervous,” Beyer said. “I love Freedom very much, and I have made a home here. I have made great friends and I have been lucky enough to have an impact on this school. However, many parts of me are excited, as I know that it is time for me to move on. I am ready to see what lies in store for the future, but I am sad to go.”
Meanwhile, the current class of 2022 anxiously awaits their own senior year, unsure of what it will hold. Thankfully, this year’s graduating class has parted much wisdom and reassures them life has a way of working things out.
“As much as you want to push yourself and force yourself to fit a certain category or standard, in the end, you will end up where you’re meant to go, so don’t go into the process with a set mind, unwilling to accept change,” said senior Kalasiddhi Thapa. “This is just the beginning of your life ahead; the college process is a rollercoaster of emotions, both good and bad, so relax and be ready to face it, because really, you will do great things wherever you go and you’ve already gotten so far with all you’ve done.”
