Sweet Taste of Summer Freedom
As summer slowly approaches, students begin to wrap up the school year. The excitement of students increases as gloomy weather develops into sunshine, and with the temperature rising, more students are taking advantage of outdoor activities. The warmer weather also gives students something to look forward to as the school year comes to an end.
When speaking to students about summer, there were many discussions on family trips, summer jobs, or simply hanging out with friends. Many students said they were looking forward to relaxing and the privilege of making their own schedules.
“Over the summer, I’m looking forward to visiting the Evanston beaches, hanging out with friends, and enjoying the time I still have in Evanston,” stated senior Kierstin Jamison.
The spirit of students becomes positive as the weather brightens. Students get a mental health boost as the stress of school fades. Over the extended break, students are able to unwind and decompress from the feeling of burnout.
“The warm weather affects students’ mental health because there isn’t any school stress,” commented senior Ezat Ahmed. There is also more time to interact with friends and do outdoor activities.”
Summer break allows students to be less overwhelmed and provides more social interaction with friends and family, which increases their mood. Summer provides students with a fresh start, which benefits them physically and mentally. It also allows them to focus on their own personal hobbies that they may have less time for during the school year.
Although the summer is a joyful time for students, this summer will be the last summer in Evanston for several seniors.
“Summer is more favorable for students. We don’t have to worry about homework, and we can take time for ourselves,” Jamison stated. “This summer will feel very different compared to others. It is the last time I’ll be with my peers before we all go off to college. It’s also the summer I’ll be focused on planning out my next four years in university.”
As seniors move on to the next chapter of their lives, this summer will be memorable. With the responsibility of figuring out the next four years, this summer will come with more freedom by making decisions that will affect seniors’ futures. The majority of the seniors wish to fully utilize this time by making memories with friends as they go their separate ways.
While the weather begins the shift, students’ energy rises. Students have become encouraged to enjoy the sunshine by enjoying outdoor activities, while the summer also gives students something to look forward to as the year comes to an end. With it being the last Evanston summer for some, this summer will provide freedom and create structure as they develop their last memories with their high school peers.
