The freshman experience is something we all felt, but most of us soon forget. The freshmen often get overlooked with all the senior uproar. Putting the freshmen in the spotlight, here are three freshman experiences with the first semester of their first year.

Tracy Hollis is a fifteen-year-old freshman who considers herself outgoing and carefree. Despite her optimistic spirit, she didn’t find the transition from middle to high school easy. “It was nerve-racking and intimidating.” Most of her friends didn’t come to Sahuaro with her. However, she said that it was easier to make friends here than it was in middle school. “People aren’t afraid to start a conversation – like it’s no big deal.”  Tracy said she wasn’t sure about the principal Mr. Estrella, because he was a lot more friendly with the students than she was used to, but Estrella is a very visible principal who likes to get to know the students. Overall, Tracy describes her first semester as a “Very fulfilling learning experience.”  Tracy learned in her first semester that high school wasn’t like she was expecting at all but in some ways was much better.

Ethan Tso is older than most freshmen but nonetheless, had his share of struggles coming into high school. Ethan admittedly describes himself as anxious and socially awkward, though was quick to find his footing at Sahuaro. “It was really quiet for the first three or so weeks until everyone found their groups.”  Ethan explained that most of his friends from middle school came with him to attend Sahuaro, this helped him be more confident with making new friends after some time. His biggest fear was getting picked on by the upperclassmen. However, he got along well with his older peers and the Student Council. Ethan’s overall outlook on his first semester was that it wasn’t as scary as he thought it would be and that it was easier once he found his group: “Find your group of friends and stick with them.”

Addison Evans is fourteen years old and learned a lot in her first semester at Sahuaro. Addison found the transition from middle to high school stressful, of course, but it got easier “once I found the people I get along with in every class.” Figuring out the schedule and set up of the school got easier with time as it always does. As far as friendships, Addison lets it come naturally and tries her best to manage older friendships. “Met some cool people, and realized some people are better off left alone.” She describes the general atmosphere as being chaotic but not unexpected for entering high school. Overall Addison learned that decisions matter and make an impact on how easy school is. “High school is significantly calmer and less dramatic than we are taught to believe.” Addison believes that the right crowd makes all the difference in her high school career.

The freshman experience is something we all have to persevere through. These were only three experiences out of hundreds. Everyone’s entrance into high school is different. You have a lot to learn and growing to do. Enjoy high school while it lasts and have fun while paving the way for your future.