How should freshmen be encouraged to explore new hobbies or interests?

By: Sophia Ortiz

January 12, 2026

Photo Credit: Sophia Ortiz (SCTA Freshman)

Caption: Both of the photos above of the “Harry Potter” book series and the two vision boards, represent interests of several students.

Between the summer of eighth and ninth grade, teens are stressed about high school, especially in trying to fit in. While exploring their identity, they have to decide what to change about themselves and what parts they should express. How should freshmen accomplish that?

As all of the people interviewed have come to an agreement that change is good, as freshman Devri Chappell said, “...it's the only way we can grow and become better”. This helps shape our identity, which is, as freshman Max Doubin explains, “...who I am as a person, including my values, experiences, and the things that matter most to me… shaped by how I was raised, the people in my life, and what I have learned along the way.”

According to the interviewees, their interests haven’t changed as much yet in the first semester of 9th grade, but the change in rigor caused their academic habits to develop, and just like freshmen Sofia Czuba and Leanne Mallari, many grew out of their comfort zone. Since freshmen are talking with more people, we need to get back to the title question: How should freshmen be encouraged to explore new hobbies or interests?

Tons of information about “Club A being super fun” or “Club B being exhausting” is being passed around from student to student. This and clubs in general would influence their decisions in checking out whether the things they’re interested in are right for them. So, what do I suggest? Freshman JanMichel Avancado explains, “Joining many clubs as a freshman expands what you can experience more into your high school career.” For example, as someone currently in Speech and Debate, Varsity Quiz, HOSA, and Vision Board Club, although these clubs remove my time from studying, these new experiences in competition and learning about new material has helped me figure out my strengths and what I may pursue or have as a hobby.

In summary, freshmen should join more clubs and after-school activities to not only build on current interests and discover what they’re truly passionate about, but to build character and make life-long connections. High school is where life really starts, and it's important for students to recognize that these next four years will be vital to their future to build their resume, and identity.

Credits:

• South CTA Freshmen: Yuma Wu, Raeey Niguse, Leanne Mallari, Amber Ting, Leann Thang, Devri Chappell, Max Doubin, Sofia Czuba, Alaina Gregorio

• Desert Oasis Freshmen: JanMichel Avanzado, Sabrina Ly