To the Wesleyan community,
It’s hard to believe that the school year is already in full swing. Sports teams are headed to the playoffs, the fall musical’s debut is approaching, and classes are far past the introductory stage. Although students and faculty have established daily routines and adjusted to the responsibilities that the school year entails, it’s normal to miss the freedom of summertime and feel hesitant to fully insert yourself in the school year. However, there’s a big difference between being involved in school because it’s an obligation and choosing to be involved yourself.
When it comes to being an active member of the community, you’re responsible for what you make of your high school experience. Whether it’s constantly studying or overworking yourself to perform well in a sport, too much of anything leads to burnout and stress. The best way to live a balanced life in moderation is by managing your time well so you can find joy in all aspects of your life. At Wesleyan, there are always opportunities to engage with others and try something new, and that’s something I want to challenge you with this year. As you develop habits that will set the tone for the rest of the school year, I encourage you to put yourself out there and show up. Deciding to be present with others will help you build strong lasting relationships with people in your community.
Freshmen, I know it can be difficult to attend sporting events and club meetings when you don’t have your license yet. I remember being a freshman and having to beg my mom to drive me 25 minutes to and from YoungLife every Monday but being involved allowed me to integrate myself in my community and make memories that I still remember three years later. I hope that you learn how to manage your time so you can be with your friends while also tending to your responsibilities. The patterns that you develop this year are foundational to the rest of your high school experience, and the sooner you start contributing to the high school community, the sooner you will reap its benefits of fellowship and support.
Sophomores, by now, you may be excited about what your second year of high school will bring or completely over the effort it takes to do everything you want to. Whichever way you’re leaning, I want you to remember the impact and influence that a sophomore had on you as a freshman. As sophomores, you now have that opportunity to take on that role of being a freshman’s inspiration. Going out of your way to immerse yourself in the school community is important for your well-being, but it can also be good encouragement for that freshman who may feel out of place. I hope you will support your peers this year not only to have fun, but to set an example for the freshmen class.
Juniors, I know it can’t be easy hearing every single week that “junior year is the worst and hardest year.” That alone added plenty to my plate last year, and I let the weight of my grades and activities consume my time. However, looking back, I don’t think about the long hours I spent studying for the ACT and the events I missed because I was focused on the test I had the next day. Instead, I remember the amazing memories that I made with my friends going to the lacrosse games, going out to eat with my teammates after soccer practice, and making the most of every situation. Don’t get me wrong; it’s important to prioritize school, but school isn’t the only important thing in your life. I want you to attend school events as a way to seek joy amid the overwhelming demands that junior year brings.
Seniors, attending school events is one of the best ways to make the most of your final year of high school. There are so many senior-specific events available to you this year, and I encourage you to use them as opportunities to grow new friendships and take ownership of your school spirit. Showing up and participating makes your senior year more meaningful and fun. Don’t let these fleeting opportunities pass you by; instead, embrace your final year at Wesleyan by getting out of your comfort zone and leading the rest of the student body with enthusiasm.
Voluntarily attending school events doesn’t just make your life more fun, but it also contributes to the supportive environment curated at Wesleyan. By allowing yourself to enjoy your community, you are learning how to live a balanced life, a skill that will always serve you well as you go through life. Lean into the community around you, and you might be surprised at how much it eases your worries.
Allie Sperling
Co- Editor-in-Chief
