By Kaia Costa
As I approach my junior year of high school, I understand the trials and tribulations so far have only pushed me to be the student I am today, and to work hard and do my best.
Sophomore year was full of challenges, from my first AP class, to learning to balance my school work, social life, and sports. But if there’s one thing this year has taught me in particular is that you should always try your best, and the truth of the matter is, your best truly is good enough.
In high school, everyone is so concerned about being athletic enough for the varsity team, talented enough for the school musical, or most of all smart enough to get into that university. Don’t get me wrong, having aspirations and being goal oriented are some of the best traits someone can have to be successful in the long run. But if this past school year has taught me one thing, it’s to not be so focused on self improvement that you forget to recognize the person you are today. I encourage each student as we approach the 2026-2027 school year to give yourselves some grace. Whether you feel the pressure from your parents, teachers, coaches, or maybe from yourself, take the time to recognize the accomplishments you have already made! And if you can’t take it from me, always remember what Ferris Bueller said, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”