Photo | Taylor Thueson
Photo | Taylor Thueson
Photo | Ashley Bahmiller
Ashley Bahmiller and Taylor Thueson
FEATURE | May 2025
Seniors Ashley Bahmiller and Taylor Thueson share their advice for the incoming freshmen.
Ashley Bahmiller
How do you balance school, extracurriculars, and a job?
I think the most efficient way to balance everything is being aware of your time and using it wisely. Teachers often offer much time to complete work in class, so use it!
How do you make friends?
High school is all about making friendships. Every person around you is in the same boat as you. Try branching out and taking opportunities to hang out outside of school at simple things like sporting events. Saying hello or sitting next to somebody new in class can make a huge difference and even be the start of many friendships.
How do you study for a test?
Personally, I love flash cards. I make too many flash cards for every test, but it helps so much. Writing down your answers on a sheet of paper instead of just repeating them in your head is really beneficial. I think the Quizlet Plus membership is definitely worth it too.
Taylor Thueson
How do you balance school, extracurriculars, and a job?
Make a schedule for yourself, so you don’t get stressed out. Find what works for you to set aside time for each task you have and stick to it.
How do you make friends?
Be yourself, put yourself out there, and don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone. Say hi to your classmates in the hallways and catch up in classes when you can.
How do you study for a test?
Making a Quizlet helps me to study for tests. Also, having someone quiz you is helpful.
How many AP classes would you recommend taking as a sophomore?
It depends on the amount of free time you will have to complete work outside of school, but two AP classes would be plenty.
What do you do to stay organized in your classes?
Make a schedule. Keep a planner or notes app going for all the tasks you have for each class.
How important are finals?
Finals are not detrimental to your classes. Do take them if you are right below a certain letter grade and want to potentially be bumped up.
How do you approach your teacher if you need help in a class?
Most teachers should have their prep. periods posted somewhere so you know when they are available to offer help. If not, just email or ask in person about whatever you are needing help with.
Aubrey Eckroth is a sophomore, and it is her first year writing for the Century Star. Eckroth’s goals are to become more comfortable when sharing her writing with others and to extend her writing abilities. Eckroth also hopes to become better at writing articles and conducting interviews.
When Eckroth is not in school or working on homework, she enjoys cozying up with a good book, drawing, or writing. “I like these activities because they allow me to disconnect and be creative at the same time,” Eckroth said. Some of the book genres she enjoys are realistic fiction, fantasy, and mystery. Though she doesn’t take the time to read them much anymore, one of Eckroth’s long-time favorite book series are...