Seniors dish out advice

Milton Area High School seniors have some advice for future freshmen about classes, extracurriculars, college and life outside of school.

On academia:

According to a Panther Press survey completed by 37 seniors, 35 percent suggested students focus on their classes and make sure they submit all their work. Another 16 percent said doing and reviewing school work will help students study better.

Just over a quarter of survey respondents said students should not cram.

“Stick to a study schedule if you’re having trouble studying regularly,” said Senior Tristin Kitchens. “Remove distractions and reward yourself when you hit a milestone.”

“Don’t be scared to ask for help,” added Senior Heather Longacre.

Senior Kendall Fedder said she regretted not studying more as an underclassman. “[It] killed my overall GPA,” she added.

If students are aiming for a higher GPA, Senior Nicholas Fleck recommended that they take PC Now and AP classes that are weighted more than honor classes.

Senior Gaven Russell added that students should focus on their grades, but not so much so that they do not enjoy their childhood.

“Try to have fun. If you can make an assignment or project enjoyable for you, the class will be four times smoother,” said Senior Hunter Gearhart.

According to the survey, 19 percent of seniors said students should find ways to have fun while in high school.

On being an athlete:

Two-thirds of seniors encourage students to join a sport, according to the survey.

“If you ever have even the slightest interest in a sport you should always try it out. You’ll never know what’s right for you unless you try it,” said Senior Chloe Heintzelman. “Sports will often make you feel more included and provide you with a second family you will cherish for years to come.”

“Don’t give up so easily. We all started somewhere, and we all work for what we want. But, if you truly don’t love it, don’t do it,” added Senior Nathalie Vargas.

Senior Kylie Wagner said student athletes should take school seriously to not fall behind.

“Don’t miss school. Between practice and classes you’ll become overwhelmed with work,” added Senior Kylie Keefer.

On getting involved:

According to the survey, 62 percent of the seniors suggested students join a club.

“It can seem like you never have any time outside of school, but it is important to de-stress and focus on something besides academics,” said Tristin. “Joining high school clubs is a great way to achieve that goal.”

Tristin added joining clubs gives students a well-rounded portfolio for applying to college and getting financial aid.

“Be careful to not overwork yourself though, as the more active you are in extracurriculars the less time you’ll have for school,” said Nicholas.

Chloe added that clubs allow students to get involved with the community.

“They’re also a great way to channel some of your specific interests and bond with other people around you who may also share that same interest,” said Chloe.

“The more clubs, sports and activities you’re in, the more people you’ll meet and the better your social life will be,” said Nicholas.

Nicholas added he regrets not becoming more involved in clubs sooner.

According to Senior Drake Musser, school should come before a social life. “However, that doesn’t mean you can’t hang out and have fun; just balance it,” said Drake.

Senior Jakaila Leonce added having a social life can help to take away school stress.

“Number one rule is just be kind, and don’t care what other people have to say,” said Nathalie. “Some people in high school can be mean, but if you just kill them with kindness, they will never have anything to say about you.”

Kylie Wagner added students should not do things to simply fit in, and it is natural to lose and/or gain friends.

“The best possible thing I did for myself was to be myself unapologetically,” said Chloe.

Being a freshman gives students the opportunity to start fresh and figure out who they are, added Chloe.

On employment:

According to the survey, over a third of the seniors said school should be prioritized before a job.

“If you can juggle a job and school, then I suggest it, but only if you are ready,” said Hunter.

Tristin added a good resource to find and choose the right job in high school is through the guidance counselors.

A job can be stressful to manage, but is made easier if students have people that can help them and a job that will accommodate for them, according to Kylie Keefer.

“Don’t be rushed to find a job as soon as you turn a certain age; you’re going to work for the rest of your life,” said Nathalie.

On planning for the future:

According to the survey, 51 percent of seniors said students should start researching colleges in their junior year, with another 14 percent suggesting starting their sophomore year.

“Don’t feel pressured to go to college. If you don’t know, it’s totally not a big deal,” said Senior Aliyah Kessler. “College is not for everyone, and you can still get a good job if you don’t go.”

Senior Dania Santana Reyes added that many other students will not know what college or job they want either. “Don’t stress about it,” she said.

According to Senior Deven Shoemaker, students should look into what they want their career to be and where they want to go to school, so that they have the time to make sure it is what they want.

“Start testing things out as soon as possible. The earlier you apply for college (early fall of senior year), the better scholarships you’ll get from colleges,” said Nicholas. “You should also do college tours and meetings with financial aid counselors to find the right pick for you.”

Nicholas added students must think of not only what they like to do and what they are good at, but also what is “financially viable.”

Gaven said the Diversified Occupations program is another option for students. “Look into getting a job either through Diversified Occupations, or after school, that [is] related to your career and get that experience and truly know if that’s what you want to do,” he added.

Students should apply for many scholarships, according to Senior Grace Richart.

It is good for students to look ahead, but they should not “obsess over it,” said Senior Emily Nicholas. “You have time.”

And finally:

According to the survey, more than a quarter of seniors say senior year goes by fast. Almost half of seniors surveyed said students should have fun and make many memories their senior year.

Chloe said putting in the work early on will pay off because these students will have a “more comfortable and enjoyable” senior year.

Nicholas said students should be aware of the impact of senioritis because “it is real and it hits hard.”

“Take care of yourself during senior year,” added Nicholas.

“I wouldn’t change anything because you only have one chance, and I made my decisions,” added Deven.

“Just have fun, live in the moment, and leave high school with no regrets,” said Nathalie.