Making the most of the school year

Rachel Sapola

It’s that time of year again: Avon Lake High School is back in session! After the past school year and a half of pandemic learning, students and staff are eager to start getting back into some normalcy, which means that it’s about time to start making the most of this school year.

Now is a great time to start taking advantage of new opportunities, especially as COVID-19 restrictions lighten. Clubs, sports, and other extracurricular activities should be proceeding normally, so try something new! Challenge yourself to expand on your quarantine hobbies or even find something new that interests you.

Additionally, many establishments are seeking new employees as working from home gained popularity during the pandemic. With numerous employers offering higher-than-normal wages and more hours, this could be your school year to find a job!

However, lighter restrictions also create busier schedules; as you fill your schedule with these newly available activities, continue to pace yourself. Find a schedule that works for you, making sure to reserve time for rest and mindfulness. This will help you balance your schoolwork, interests, and self-care, ultimately allowing you to have your best school year possible!

To upperclassmen: begin working towards taking your standardized tests and building a college (or work) resume. Your future self will thank you for getting a head start. We’ve all waited until the very last minute to begin working on a major project, but you’ll be able to save yourself from stress and enjoy more of your school year if you avoid procrastinating the college application essentials as much as possible.

Most importantly, while it seems like we are nearing the end of the coronavirus, it’s necessary to continue following health and safety guidelines. Take the time to educate yourself on how to best keep yourself and others healthy. So keep your distance and don’t ditch the masks quite yet (or better yet, expand your collection and match them to your outfits). Besides, you can’t make the most of your school year while sick or stuck in quarantine!