CAMPUS: Advice Column

Freshmen ask, seniors answer

Should I take AP classes?

“Only if you actually are interested in the subject! Finding the content interesting is great motivation to push through what usually is rigorous coursework and definitely makes the class less stressful.”
Submitted by anonymous

“It’s good to challenge yourself by taking an AP course, and I do recommend everyone take at least one AP during high school. I recommend that students take AP classes if they believe they are capable of managing the workload, and it’s best to take APs on subjects that you are interested in!”
Submitted by Heidi Hu

“Yes!! AP classes are a great way to challenge yourself academically and prepare yourself for college. The classes provide you with a more rigorous course load, but you receive more advanced resources and the opportunity to delve deeper into various concepts. AP courses are also a way to boost your GPA and to demonstrate your interests to colleges.”

Submitted by Erin Mizota

How can I prepare for my senior year?

“FIND OUT WHAT YOU LOVE. If you don’t know what you love doing, then that’s okay. I recommend doing internships or volunteering at places that peak your interests, that way you will benefit from real work experience, and gauge what you like at the same time.”

Submitted by anonymous

“Start college apps early. They pile up and take a lot of time each.”

Submitted by Prateek Kundu

“Stay organized and try your best when it comes to school and your studies. Try your best with your grades and classes because this will reflect on you later on. But also don’t be scared to have fun and branch out or participate. Senior year comes by so fast. Enjoy and spend time with your friends.”

Submitted by Leydiana Ledesma

If you could give your freshman self one piece of advice for the next years of high school, what would it be?

“Learn how to drive as soon as possible, that way you can drive yourself and friends to school.”
Submitted by anonymous

“Don’t be shy to try new things, such as joining clubs.”
Submitted by anonymous

“Be open to getting involved, trying new things and meeting new people! You’re only in high school for the next four years of your life. Make the most out of it.”
Submitted by Heidi Hu

“You live once. Remember you will die. Do something meaningful with your gift of life.”
Submitted by Liam Brennan

Should I be stressed about picking a career? How do I figure out what I want to do with my life before picking colleges?

“Just try to narrow down your interests bit by bit, but if you get closer and closer and still don’t know what you are doing, then go to community college and take classes to figure it out further. Try to experiment and really think about what you want in life.”
Submitted by anonymous

“You shouldn’t be stressed about picking a career, but you should push yourself to be engaged in activities that will help you with skills like communication and teamwork. Plan to join sports or clubs if you haven’t already, and learn how to be social.”
Submitted by anonymous

“Follow what you’re passionate about and you’ll naturally settle into a career.”
Submitted by Ethan Medeiros

What’s the fastest way to complete your service hours?

“Join CSF. Get service hours and an extra stole at graduation if you participate for two years. You only have to sign up for one or two shifts each semester, and you get to serve lunch. It’s really cool.”

Submitted by anonymous

“Pick one company and volunteer there whenever you have time!”

Submitted by Prateek Kundu

“I volunteered at Camp Campbell, an easy and fun way to complete them and also gives leadership experience.”

Submitted by Ethan Medeiros

“Google local non-profits and see if they are doing anything. Talk with people about it, and someone may know someone who knows someone who could get you those hours. Help the community and get those papers signed.”

Submitted by Liam Brennan

“In my opinion, the fastest way to complete service hours is by joining clubs, especially service clubs like Interact and Key Club. A bunch of clubs give tons of opportunities for community service hours with events.”

Submitted by Leydiana Ledesma