As seniors approach the end of their high school career, the realization becomes more clear: this is their last semester of high school, and hopefully seniors have learned some valuable skills to use in the real world.

Lancer Media asked seniors to reflect on their high school experience in hopes to encourage the underclassmen to think about the choices they have for a bright high school future.  Almost 70% of seniors said they wish they had practiced better study habits; 14% said they should’ve participated in more school activities; 8% said they wish they had completed their homework more consistently.

“You just can’t slack off during the last part of the year,” says senior Stephin Derdeyn.  “Teachers always say it, and students always ignore it. If you’re doing strong, keep that up.  Make it even better.  If you’re down in the dumps, you have to work your butt off.”

Most seniors would agree that participating in school activities is key in maintaining a good social life and making lasting memories.  Most seniors are currently participating in events such as clubs, sports, theater productions, Model United Nations, and more.  

Clubs and school activities will leave students with skills that they will need to access after high school and even after college.

“National Art Honor Society (NAHS) helped me become more organized. I learned how to plan things efficiently and also how to interact with people better,” said senior Christian Thompson, co-president of NAHS.

There’s still plenty of time to get involved. As the school year comes to end, the festivities come to life. Though the spring musical auditions have come to a close, positions are available to work backstage. Get involved by going to prom. Even at the finale of senior year, graduation, there is an opportunity to interact with classmates at Safe and Sane.

To the underclassmen:

“Don’t take all the drama too seriously.  Although it feels like everything now, high school is just a blip in the radar, and you will go on to do so many more amazing things.  Also, don’t overload yourself on tough classes. Colleges are looking for a well-rounded person and it is hard to be well-rounded when you are so overwhelmed by taking an impossible schedule.  You are only a teenager once, enjoy yourself,” says history teacher Jamie Hendi.

To the Class of 2016:

Although finishing high school and entering the real world might be scary, leaving Linganore with a heart full of success and memories will be something to cherish. Senior Lancers: make the most of what you have left!