As the year comes to an end, seniors are getting ready for their next steps. Each student has a different path they will follow. Some students plan to attend college or a university, while others hope to enter the trades.
When speaking with seniors, there have been mixed feelings about graduation, as many have deep connections to the Evanston community.
“I’ve lived in Evanston my entire life and have known some of my friends since Kindergarten, so I definitely am feeling a little sad at least,” noted senior Anna Vincent.
Leaving Evanston can be challenging for those who spent their childhood there, and the thought of leaving behind their childhood and entering adulthood is like closing one door and opening another.
Despite the downsides of leaving Evanston behind, it’s exciting to see all the paths seniors decide to take. The career paths seniors have chosen are diverse, with some pursuing business, engineering, or medical careers.
“After graduating from ETHS, I’m planning on pursuing a Nursing degree at Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin,” said Vincent. “I want to specialize in either dermatology or a specialty in a clinical/non-hospital setting.”
With seniors deciding on their next steps, they needed a support system. Finding yourself and understanding who you are as a person are important factors in what students plan to pursue, but they can also be stressful.
“They’ve listened to countless anxious rants of mine about college decisions, prom dress shopping, grad party plans, upcoming fees, and so much more,” states senior Mallory Johnston.
The stress that students go through during their senior year shouldn’t go unrecognized. Dealing with college applications and scholarships, while also trying to maintain steady grades, is challenging
“My family has instilled in me that no matter what happens, or how far I move away, I’ll always have a home to come back to, full of the best people in the whole world,” stated Johnston.
Having a supportive family is important for students managing stress during senior year, but ETHS also offers many resources to help seniors. They offer many options for students who are struggling to study or manage their workload.
“AM Support is the best. I’m a morning person, and it’s really nice to start the day productively, and to have personalized one-on-one time with a teacher you need extra support from,” Johnston added.
Overall, the senior year is filled with both excitement and fear. As seniors leave their childhoods behind, they are beginning to enter adulthood. This transition can be emotional as students leave behind their families and childhood friends, but with the support provided, seniors can navigate their next chapter smoothly.
