Welcome to your very first 204 blog post. We will be using this blog frequently, both as a tool and a resource to get the most out of our time, and as a place we can go to share thoughts and valuable information and ideas whenever we need to. Each week, there will be a question posted that you all must respond to in the allotted amount of time. These questions may be a jumping off point to class discussions, a support activity to lend insight or knowledge to what we are doing in class, or simply a thought-provoking way to get you to look at the world around you and marvel at your place in it. These questions will not be simplistic, and they should not be done when you only have 5 or so minutes on the computer; rather, they are questions designed to make you think and your posts should reflect that. You will be graded weekly on your responses by their content, so I would encourage you to try to not leave them for the last minute. Each one will have a word minimum, but don't be discouraged by that. I care much more about the quality of the thought you put into your responses rather than the quantity of the words you use.
Now that the formalities are finished, I would like you to consider the following: You are now entering your junior year. Some people say that this is the toughest, most demanding year of high school for a variety of reasons. What do YOU think? Do you have any expectations about what this year should bring? What are you hoping to get out of your AP Lang class and your junior year in general? What are your fears about this class and/or about 11th grade? Are you where you want to be academically, socially, physically etc? If so, how do you know? If not, why do you think you aren't? (300 wrds/25pts)
119 comments:
I think that it's a really good question. I can't wait to get started right away!
This school year's courses don't threaten me what-so-over. Costal tried to scare me all the way back in freshman year, and it worked until I came into the class. The work was manageable and Costal's stories were more than enough to lighten the mood. Mrs. Bunje, however, didnt use that "scare" tactic on me, so I feel a little more calm about this year. Hopefully the burden of a job won't get in the way too much. I dont know how Mrs. Bunje is with hilarious stories, but a couple day will keep FEAR away.
I am pretty sure that it will be challenging and demanding, but it will most likely be fun too as long as we believe that it is. Stress is usually the reason why we feel our classes are even more horrible than they really are. I am always full of expectations for a new school year and this year will be no different. However, I have far more ideas on increasing my participation in the Oakcrest community this year. I hope to create a club and I want to draw a comic for the Falcon Flyer (I still can’t believe I was accepted to do it). I also expect that this year will bring about a change. I want to be confident in my actions. I am willing to work for it. In AP Lang, I hope to become a better writer and reach my goals a.k.a. the star (which is well beyond my reach even if I jump as high as I can). I also hope to become friends with Ms. Bunje. As for junior year, I hope to become someone that I would want to be. I don’t want to be shy or a doormat. I want to be out there and an adventurer (was that corny?). As for fears for the year, I have so many, I can’t name them all at once. One thing I fear is that I will not meet my expectations. I also fear not giving 100%. I have to remember "Nothing Less". I am also a bit afraid that my teachers will think badly of me because I am too shy to raise my hand in class. I believe I will change that this year, though. I am definitely where I want to be academically. I wanted to be challenged to the fullest and I wanted to be demanded to put forward my best. As for socially and physically, I can always use more work in those areas. Socially, I hope to befriend more people in my classes, which I haven't done yet. Physically, I hope to be able to swim again (I can right now, but my strokes are just horrendous. I have really got to work on them). However, I believe that everything will fall into place if I have to will to work for it. I believe this year will be awesome!
P.S. One more thing, I am hoping to make an Anime/Manga Club. If anyone's interested, please tell me. I hope to get Mr. Ragan to allow it. Thank you.
The most difficult year? I can’t see why it should be. The classes will be challenging, true, but no more than any other year. I cannot say I’m worried about academics at all. I never have cared about my marks, and I doubt this year will be any different. Still, I’ll try to get decent grades, because everyone seems to expect it.
Interacting with people should be more interesting. This year, we are closer to our teachers in age (and possibly outlook) than ever before. It won’t be long before we’re working with people of the same age bracket in the office. I want to fully understand every eccentricity I’m likely to encounter in the real world, before I have to actually deal with them. And then there’s the problem of trying to think in a school full of teenagers. You could not find a better mix of deep thought and mindless noise.
But all of these came up last year, and the year before. And I doubt that they’ll go away senior year.
Then, maybe I’m looking for the wrong things. I judge my success by how much I enjoy myself. If I get into a healthy argument with half my teachers and read half a new book, I’ll be happy. If I take a math test, I will be miserable, no matter how well I do. But I have no reason to be less happy this year than in years previous.
I expect only thought from school, and a good conversation. The classes this year look like they will provide both. There’s no reason why this year should worse than any other. I just need to get used to having deadlines again, and working with people. I’d forgotten both over the summer.
Still, I think we do have more responsibility in general. And college is too close for my comfort. I can’t claim to be prepared by any stretch of the imagination. Well, that’s what the last two years are for, right?
Near the end of my sophomore and, so far, at the beginning of my junior year, all I've heard from my teachers and parents is how crucial this year is in terms of being accepted to and earning money for colleges. Freshman year was more or less a transition year from our middle school comfort zone, a time to get us accustomed to a new building, new people, new classes, etc. Sophomore year was the time when we each found our niche, and got more comfortable with the school. As sophomores, we were still somewhat new to the high school atmosphere, and most of the mistakes we made were let slide. But, now, as juniors, I feel as though much more is expected of us. We have now had two full years to learn the ropes, and we are well aware of what is acceptable (as well as what is unacceptable). Therefore, the staff now expects more from us then they have in years past. Our level of responsibility rises in accordance with these expectations, which I believe is the primary reason for junior year being the most difficult year of high school. Coming into this year, I expected it to be challenging. I expected to do more work. As junior year is the most important, in the eyes of potential college choices, it makes sense that we should do more work. Colleges want proof that prospective students are willing to do what is necessary to achieve their goals.
Well...junior year to me means one year closer to being a senior, one year closer to graduating high school, and one year closer to ending my generally carefree life with my friends. Although it can be exciting and highly anticipated, when you really start to think about it, this 'journey,' as many administrators call it, is coming to an end and a new one will begin.
People have told me that junior year is the 'most important' and 'hardest' high school year, and I would agree. My schedule is packed with four AP classes and, the last thing colleges are going to base your achievements off of is your grades from this year. For me, I plan to play softball in college, so the long and grueling nights of searching for colleges that have my major, are in the region I want, and meet my other standards is over, but still the life changing decision awaits. There are so many colleges out there and they say that 'there is a perfect college for everyone,' but how do you pick? Especially when it comes to sports, which college is going to support your playing the best, and which one is going to give you the most money to save your parents from going into debt.
But back to high school, I think that this year is going to be very difficult and include a lot of hard work, but it is nothing I can't handle. I am going to have to manage my time and really participate to do well on all of the exams. All of the upperclassman always try to intimidate us and make the upcoming years seem nerve-racking and difficult, so it's a good idea NOT to pay attention to them.
Overall, I am really looking forward to this year academically, socially, and athletically. I’m anticipating a good school year and plan to be extra interactive in stuco….ill finish the rest later!
The blog's title is a bit ironic, seeing as this feels like the end. It's the end of high school, the end of my chances to impress colleges, and the end of my dilly-dallying around thinking the world can just wait for me. I need to get a good scholarship. I need to get that Ph. D in Psychology. Do I really need any of that? Noone can answer that but me, and not even yours truly feels too confident.
Everyone around me says that the rest of your life depends on your junior year. Seriously? When I am thirty, married, and at work will I think back and regret the classes that I took my junior year? Regret the fact that I never did that one French assignment? I don’t think that junior year is the most important; rather, your whole high school career is important. I am sure this year is very important. If I want to get a scholarship for swimming, this is the year that college coaches pay attention. If I want to get into that great school, this is the year that grades will be most important. But colleges aren’t just going to look at this year, but what you have been able to keep up all four years in high school. (Or at least I tell myself that to keep me sane.) With four AP classes this year, many teachers have told us. “FOUR AP CLASSES? YOU’RE NEVER GOING TO MAKE IT.” AP Chemistry will be one class that I will never know what to expect, but seeing Mr. Matlack’s beard everyday will make it bearable. Mr. Cervi has already given us twenty speeches on how behind all of us are on the college process, which gives me a boost of confidence. But with his ADD I think that class will definitely be enjoyable. AP Calculus, I am already asleep. That will definitely be the most difficult AP class, just on the fact that I can’t find a way to focus on what Mrs. Baird is saying. AP Language will be a test to my writing and reading skills, but I think I can do it. These classes will surely be difficult, don’t get me wrong, but I know who I am, and what I am capable of doing. But that is the standard in the world today, kids are expected to perform at the higher level, and be better than whoever came before them. With that comes fear, but also a sense of drive. I put so much effort in school and sports not only for myself, but for the people around me. There is no better feeling then seeing those good grades, and handing your parents a seemingly perfect report card, knowing that they couldn’t be more proud of you. And I will spend my whole high school journey working towards seeing that big envelope come in the mail. This year, I expect a lot out of myself. I really do expect myself to succeed, and even if it may sound a little too self-confident, I think we all need to think that way to make it through this year. If we have that “I suck” attitude, there is no way that we are going to be able to make it through these demanding courses. I want to improve my SAT scores, and get those 4s and 5s on the AP exams, and with enough desire, I can make it happen. With everything in life, there are fears. My fear is that I will give up. I know I could easily slip into the nonchalant attitude and not have a care about any of my school work, but I refuse to let that happen this year. Mentally, I may not be ready to handle all of this, but with a little hard work, it’s possible. I expect to have those panic-attack filled nights, where all I want to do is curl up in my bed and cry, but I need to suck it up and get through it. I am ready, I am ready for those long nights of reading logs and chemistry problems, I am ready for the horrible practices where I mentally shut down, and I am ready to take on the challenge of my junior year.
P.S. I will resort to this blog around February when all confidence is lost in me, and while I read it I will remember how easy life is now, and wonder what I was thinking in taking all these classes. But until then, this blog was just a pep-talk to myself before the big race.
This year, as I have been constantly reminded, is the most important year of my high school career. It’s the time to start deciding what I want to do with my life and which paths I wish to traverse. Now, as has been bashed into my skull, is the time to get involved, whether through school activities and/or community service. There’s obviously no pressure, right? No pressure what so ever? WRONG! It seems everywhere I go there is someone waiting right around the corner, ready to remind me that college is only a two years away, so make this year count. Already, this year, I’ve been bombarded with SAT’s, PSAT’s, HSPA’s, grades, activities, and a myriad of other things that need to be accomplished by the end of my Junior year. I’ve barely had time to get acclimated to my new schedule, I can’t possibly be ready to make major decisions that will affect me for the rest of my life now, can I? It just seems like everyone is always in a rush and always forced to look towards the future instead or dwell in the past. Like Jordan Spark’s song This is My Now says,
This is my now, and I am breathing in the moment.
As I look around
I can't believe the love I see.
My fears behind me, gone are the shadows and doubt
That was then, this is my now.
We should follow this as example and see the beauty and love and friendship that are around us everyday, right now! If, just for a few minutes this year I could just exist and not have to look towards the future or plan to take a certain test, I think that junior year would be a life-changing experience. I feel that everyone needs day off, time to reflect upon themselves and nature around them. Now that’s not to say that everyone should go off the deep end and become a transcendentalist and go live among the trees, by no means is that what I am trying to say. But I do seem to remember that most people enjoyed parting from the usual, monotonous ritual of sitting at a desk and learning. I vividly recall the smiles that pervaded through the room when we were given the task of just living in the moment and doing what we felt was right to do. Now, I also remember the heated debates that caused, but that’s a different story for a different time. This now brings me to the point of point of my tirade. This year I hope to learn but not just facts, words, and other assorted sundries. This is year I hope to learn about myself and become more aware of whom I am as a person. I hope that my AP classes will not only bring me analytical intelligence but also the ability to discern character and get to know people for who they really are, not just who they are at school. My major fear is that in the tangled web of AP classes, and tests, and grades, and activities that I’ll lose part of myself and become robotic, with my main mission being to score highly on tests no matter what the sacrifice. Lastly, I feel comfortable with were I am socially, physically, although the doctor says I need to shed a few pounds, and mentally. Overall, I’m not saying to blow off junior year like its nothing because it is obviously crucial. What I’m saying is that we can’t get so wrapped up in getting good grades and taking tests that we forget who we are and do things only to succeed, that we will latter regret. I’m sincerely looking forward to this year and can’t wait to see how I come out of it. I do know that should I ever turn to the dark side, I have friends who are always there for me and won’t let me make stupid decisions that I will one day come to rue. Thanks everyone. (Sorry for getting all sentimental, but I truly do believe that friends are the best antidote to a tempted, tired, and tried soul)
Eva’s entry, “The most difficult year? I can’t see why it should be. The classes will be challenging, true, but no more than any other year,” poses somewhat of a paradox to me. I agree in that this year shouldn’t be all that different in terms of academic challenge/expectations, maybe slightly as is expected as we climb up the academic ladder, but no radical changes from all the others. However, I also feel it will be the most challenging, spiritually and morally. As I mentioned earlier, we cannot lose our values and morals, now I sound like Costal again, to the competition of getting good grades. I feel that retaining our pride, dignity, and honor may be one of the most difficult things to do this, which is where I whole-heartedly disagree with Eva in that this year won’t be more difficult than the others. While this year should come as no surprise academically, the stress of doing well might, and we can’t do things that we will latter regret. I’d like to end with a quote that sums up my feelings on the issue when dark times, trying moments, tempt us with debauchery.
“Dark times lie ahead... Soon we must all face the choice
between what is right, and what is easy." (who knows where this is from?? :) )
I've been warned numerous times by seniors who took the demanding classes I'm taking this year. They all say the same thing...that junior year will be the toughest year in my high school career. I frequently debated about whether I should take AP classes this year, but I was coaxed into taking them. I came into junior year expecting the work to come full throttle. Pressure seems to be coming from all areas in my life at the moment. This year, I am reminded constantly by my parents and even my friends, is the year where I should be apply 110% of my attention into my school work and my athletics. But isn’t that what we do every year? I don’t believe that the two years preceding my junior year mean nothing to colleges. This year is just the prime of my, and everyone else’s high school years. Every year is just as important to me, but this year is when picking a college and a possible profession is essential. I can honestly say I’m not ready at all. However, I have to think, is really one year of your life going to determine the rest of it? It could have a major impact on it, but it’s still a scary thought to process in my opinion. I'm hoping that all my hard work, not just in my junior year, will pay off in the future and that I will get accepted by the college of my choice. By taking AP lang, I’m hoping that my writing skills and my critical thinking will continue to progress. I'm expecting that this class will do just that. I’ve been cautioned about the workload for this class, and I know I’m going to hate every second of it, but I want to improve, not only in AP lang, but the rest of my academics as well. Right now, I really have no fears about my classes. I know they’re going to be hard and I’ve already gotten past that fact. Not much fazes me either, but I’m still going to work my butt off to keep my grades up. However, in my academic and physical life, I feel that I need some improvement. My parents are expecting an athletic or any sort of scholarship from me. I fear that if I don’t receive any money, I won’t be able to pay for my college. As for my physical life at the moment, I’m in soccer season right now at the Oak. It’s been going well for me, as I’ve been on varsity since freshman year, but there’s always room for improvement in my mind. Academically I feel I could progress a lot this year, and I’m all ears for any advice on how to. I feel that I’m prepared emotionally for this school year, but I need to turn my summer mode off first. I’m ready to improve and this year’s the year to prove I can.
My entire high school career, I heard how important junior year was. Actually, more like I had it drilled into my head from day one of freshman year... the teachers always spoke of the doomed junior year when you take SATs, take various AP classes, apply to colleges, coaches can contact athletes, etc. etc. It's hard to believe that I am finally here, after so much anticipation. With my academic and athletic goals set for the year, I can clearly see that this will be the most difficult, for I set my goals and expectations high. As a sophomore and freshman, I definitely slipped into a lazy routine. My biggest problem has always been time management. I always imagined "I'll do that later..." and stressed myself out when "later" finally came around. My number one goal for this year is to use better time management (and practice meditation). :) However, the main goal of the year is to reach my potential of becoming a better student.
From AP language class, I want to learn to read with understanding. So many times, I read Shakespeare or difficult writings dripping with double meanings, and I'm instantly confused. It takes some time for my mind to wrap myself around philosophical thoughts and ideas of others. It would be great to comprehend the true meaning behind writers' words.
Wow, that was all under the category of "academically." Ha ha.
Socially, it's simple. Love the ones who treat you right, forget about the ones who don't. I'm a rather simple person in that regard. I'm a loyal friend and whole-heartedly trust everyone until they give me a reason not to. After that trust is gone, it is really hard to gain it back. I try to stay real and sincere.
Physically, I want to challenge myself. This past softball season was disappointing in the "hitting" department, which was really hard on me. This goes back to "reaching my potential" as one of my goals for the year. This paragraph could go on forever about sports, so I'll just keep it to a minimum.
However, overall, I want to make sure that happiness is on the very top of my "to do" list. I'm not ashamed or embarrassed to share my short-term goal on my star... My goal was "to wake up happy every single day." Sure, that goal itself might be a challenge, due to the various circumstances. But I believe that happiness is a choice.
I have always been told that my junior year will be the most important year of my life. The reasons that were given to me are: SATs, college applications, and my grades matter the most this year. Therefore currently life had gotten a bit stressful. In my opinion I agree with all those people. But they make it sound extra scary. I mean it’s not like I am going to fail and ruin my entire life. I see this year as a way for me to step up my game. Do a little bit more than look over notes and not even touch my textbooks. The classes are going to be extremely hard so I know that have to be ready for anything.
AP Lang. is said to one of the toughest classes in this high school. Many people told me that I should just drop the class and take college prep. Even though college prep does a little too many projects. But I have always been told negative things about AP language. I know that there are some positives like my SAT score will increase at least 100 points, I will a much better writer, and I will have a good teacher.
My expectations for this year are extremely high but the expectations that others have for me may be a little higher. Freshman and Sophomore year no one expects that much form you because you are still getting use to a new atmosphere. But as soon as you are junior everything changes. Classes get more difficult, expectations rise, and life gets a little more stressful than it was. But I think that if I give it 100% I will definitely reach my expectations for this year. I have a fear of not achieving what I want, therefore if I don’t give it my 100% then I won’t get it. I am ready for junior year and everything that it brings with it.
I just felt like commenting on Matt W's comment. I think he went through many things that people feel this year in his comment, such as the fact that everywhere we turn, we do find that there's always someone there to remind us that this year is THE year. I also found his use of song lyrics as a great way to emphasize his point (and it was also really cute). When he referred to the transcendentalist subject, I started laughing, but it's true. Though, not to be practiced to the extreme, I believe that he is correct in saying that we should live in the moment where our friends and family reside. Yes, we should worry about tomorrow, but it's a little later on. Regardless of warnings, the future shouldn't make us afraid.
Also, I'm glad to hear that you appreciate your friends. It makes me happy on the inside! Yay! Ahem...moving on...
Personally though, I disagree a little on the whole temptation scenario because I believe that if I cheat, I only hurt myself. The point of school is to learn. Grades are important, but to do everything necessary to get it, even if it means going off the deep end, just doesn't seem realistic to me. I'm pretty sure it occurs, but we're AP students. I hope that we have enough honor and integrity to not resort to such actions. I agree with Matt on everything else though. Go Matt!
Since my high school career began, I have heard students, teachers, guidance counselors, and various academic advisors and people stress the extreme importance of junior year. The academics and grades of junior year are what most colleges look at and of course there is the HSPA, which you NEED to pass to graduate high school. In addition to that, I took the hardest classes I have ever taken. I would say that looking at this year and my schedule; I was a little stressed and intimidated for what was before me. I decided though, like a few days ago that it is not going to be worth it to be a huge wreck for my junior year. I don’t want to get myself psyched out before the year has even begun. I am going to study hard and not procrastinate in any of my classes, because procrastinating is definitely one of my worst problems. I need to not wait until the night before to do the work. I have a problem of sometimes tending to be lackadaisical about school work, because last year I didn’t really take the most difficult classes. Despite my previous attitude, I am going to really try to do my best and NOT slack off like I did in my freshman year. I do feel behind because pretty much everyone else in AP Lang took AP classes last year, but it was my fault for taking the easy way out. Due to that this year may take some definite sacrifices, such as not going out with friends if I have a big test coming up and just studying extra, extra hard. But I do understand the importance of this year and am going to stay on top of things. I want to get into a good college, so I will have to really try and focus to keep my grades up.
Besides junior year being the most important and challenging, I am hoping it will be the most fun. When I was a freshman I couldn’t wait to be a junior because it always seemed to be the best year. The juniors always seemed to be having a good time. I really want to make the most of it and be actively involved in student council and have a lot of fun. I am really content with my friends and boyfriend and want to have a lot of good memories with them. I want to get a lot out of my junior year, academically and socially, so I am really going to be determined and make it happen.
Well, after Bunje told us in class today that many of us did answer all the questions, I realized I left out the academic, social, and mental part. Like I mentioned before, I may not be mentally ready for what to come. And I think today was the first time I truly realized it. I got home, and saw that I had chemistry, calculus, English, and history to do. And I began to get worried, if I have all this homework now, what will I do when practice starts, and I have to rush to get it done? (Matlack lovers, number 8 is over my head.) Socially, I think I am exactly where I need to be. I have a close group of friends both in and out of school that I can rely on when I am in the panic mood. Without that close support group, whether it be my mom to cry to when I can’t manage to do any more homework, or those friends to vent to about the boy/family/school problems, everyone needs someone talk to. I smell like chlorine every second of my life, and if I swam any longer, it would be unhealthy, so I think I have the physical aspect under control.
In response to Hilary’s blog, I agree with the procrastination aspect. I think we all have what many call “laziness” but we just call “doing it later.” But with the workload this year, I need to stop my laziness, and force myself to do the assignments when I get them. Time management will obviously be a challenge; it’s just one more to add to my plate. And Matt W. your Jordan Sparks quote was adorable!
I don't think that junior year is actually the hardest year of highschool, and that we only believe so because we are put under the most unfortunate circumstances during this period of time. Teachers, parents and guidance counselors have stressed the importance of this year since I've entered this school, but it wasn't because we would be taking harder classes, or reaching out of our comfort zones. This year, as far as I can see it, is putting us under the closest scrutiny. College applications, scholarships, SAT's, HSPA's, our grades and our GPAs all become important during this year. "You better do good on your SATs, or else Georgetown won't even consider you." "Number 30 in your class? Well, you can forget about Princeton." "If you fail the HSPAs, you can pretty much kiss any academic scholarships goodbye."
It isn't as though our outlook, our friends, or our burden (although we may be taking more AP classes) has changed. It's our perspective. Personally, I'm not the type of person who stresses out very easily. However, I think that this year may test my nerves in more ways than one. I think I have more resolve when it comes to schoolwork than I have the past years. But is this new attitude the product of my own desire to suceed or the inspection I know I'll be put under? It's hard to say.
As to what I expect to get out of AP Lang this year, I honestly don't know. It seems that every year I say to myself, "Self, you need to really pick it up this year. No slacking allowed!" But, eventually, I fall back into the same old habits; saving homework till the last minute, not studying for tests, and putting everything off. However, I know that I won't be able to do that this year. With 4 AP classes, it won't be easy to save everything for study hall, and I know that the only way I'll be able to keep up is by sending my procrasinating ways out the door. This year, I plan on learning from discipline, and from what I hear from AP Lang alumni, it's either sink or swim in this class without it. The promise of raising my SAT verbal by 100+ points is stuck in the back of my mind, as well, so I expect higher scores on my SATs this year.
As for my academic, social, and physical status, I think I'm where I need to be. I have a good group of friends who are there when I need them, and I love them all to death. Sports-wise, I could be better, but I'm not looking for any sports scholarships so I'm fine with my performance. As long as I make varsity, I'm happy. Academically, I think I need some work. It's not that I doubt my mental prowess, but my work ethic. So far, and I hate to say it, I've been able to get high Bs and As by doing what feels like just "floating by". This year, I want to challenge myself to see what I'm capable of.
Fears for this year? To be honest, I don't have any. Sure, I'll be feeling a tad apprehensive when AP time rolls around, and I'm sure there'll be days when I'm just a little more than frantic, but I know that if I put my mind to it, there's nothing to be afraid of. As long as I have fun and do my best, this year will be, in my eyes, a success. And that's not such a scary thought, is it?
In response to Devon: Hang in there girl! I'm sure everyone can relate to what you're going through- ditzy (no offense) guidance counselors, random schedules, and those good old nostalgic summer memories that make you wonder just what in the world you're doing in bio class when there's 8-foot waves in Sea Isle City. But that's just part of high school, isn't it? Let's face it, life isn't supposed to be easy, and high school sure does a good job of rubbing that right in our faces. So, in the words of my good friend Willy Wonka, "Cheer up Charlie! Where's that smile that I love?" Don't let anything get in the way of you having a good time this year; not a messed up schedule, 4 AP classes, or having to deal with creepy stalkers that chase you down the hallway. Just relax, go with the flow, and forget about phsyics. If there's one thing I've learned about life in the past year, its that you can't sweat the little stuff. Sounds cliche, but when you're constantly surrounded by choices and decisions, as we so often are, then it really comes in handy.
Honestly, I do not look at my junior year any differently than last year. I ignore the comments i hear about it being the most important year. I don't worry about this because I am confident, and I know that as long as I'm willing to work hard, I have nothing to worry about,so I refuse to stress myself for no reason. I don't think any of us should be as worried as we're expected to be. We need to all just relax and breeze through junior year with hard work, like it was any other year.
I myself have high expectation for this year, especially this class. I joined AP Language and composition mainly to improve my writing skill. So at the end of the year, I have no doubt that I will leave this class with more confidence in my writing. My main goal this year is to exceedingly enhance my writing, which is the reason I also chose creative writing as an elective. At the end of junior year, i want to walk out satisfied, more educated, and more confident in my work. I am willing to make this year all about work and to keep myself busy since time goes by faster the busier you are. The faster junior year goes by, then senior year, the faster i get to get out of this school and actually get some sleep in the morning.
My only fear though, as I am new to AP, is that my work will not be as good and effective as everybody elses, which will discourage me and probably deter me from writing. Even as I was reading over some of the other comments, I couldn't help but feel inferior. But as i am open to challenges, i am going to challenge myself with this class, and am looking forward to it.
I am where i want to be socially, and physically. But academically, i want to be in a better position, which I know i will achieve by the end of the year.
I'm not really sure how this "comment on someone's else's" goes, but I think I just leave another separate comment...?
Okay.
I'm commenting on what Eva said... and I completely agree. Eva, you take a different look on things compared to most people, which I think is great. My favorite thing that you commented was "I judge my success by how much I enjoy myself. If I get into a healthy argument with half my teachers and read half a new book, I’ll be happy." I said something a little similar regarding happiness. I believe that is the most important in life, and if you aren't enjoying it, what's the point? I think it's great that you "do what you WANT." :) Keep up being awesome.
Junior year is one that I have been waiting for, yet dreading since I have entered high school. Hearing about all the cool stuff like researching colleges and getting the big "L" makes it seem so exciting. But underneath it all, there is a lot of hard work and struggle that I will have to go through this year, in order to get to where I want to be in life.
When I discuss junior year with alumni, I get the same reaction from every single person. "Junior year is the best and worst year of high school." “You just wait until the AP tests come along …” “Hooray for SATs and HSPAs!” However, it isn’t only students who have been stressing this idea on me since we were old enough to understand it. Teachers, guidance counselors and especially my parents have been on me, ensuring that I stay on top of my academics. Although some of the ideas they speak of might be true, I try my hardest not to let them bother me to the point where I’m heading for a mental break-down.
Despite what others have to say, I believe this is the year to honestly do my best all around. My grades from this year will be the most recent, so they better have something great to look at if I’m even considering getting into a good college. Yeah they’ll graze over my freshman and sophomore grades, but they will be most interested in what’s going on NOW. Hearing this as a puny freshman intimidated me a bit. But I made it through that year and the next, so I’ve become a little more relaxed when it comes to these stressful ideas.
So I’m going to ignore what’s been said and go through AP Lang with an open mind. I’ll admit that I’m a little nervous because I’m definitely not the best writer in the world, but I feel as though this class will improve my writing and composition 100%. I expect it to be a very demanding and difficult class, along with my other AP and honors classes. Nevertheless, I’m expecting those nights where all I want to do it crawl under a rock, ball my eyes out, and simply quit. But, I feel that if I keep up with the work load, I’ll definitely survive.
As for my academic, social, and physical status, I’m not in a bad spot. I have to admit, I am not exactly where I want to be academically, but things can change. I realize now that I didn’t put enough effort into last year, so I wasn’t as happy as I could’ve been with the grades I received. Procrastination and stubbornness got the best of me. I believe I can do much better. But on the other hand, socially and athletically, I’ve been doing very well since I have entered high school. This is my third year on Varsity Soccer for Oakcrest and I’ve been playing in numerous college showcase tournaments with my traveling team, trying to get myself out there in hopes of any sort of scholarship. I have a great group of close friends, as well as others floating around the halls and even in other schools. All of which are there for a laugh and in times of need.
Regardless of how frightening this year may seem, as long as I keep a few important things in mind, I will be perfectly fine. These will be the best years of my life, so I better make them count. When the stress of my challenging classes seems unbearable, I have to remember that this is it. I need to kill myself now because I know it’ll all pay off for me later. It’s now or never. I’m doing this for me and for what I want out of my life. I’m ready.
I honestly haven’t thought all that much about the academic stresses and worries that are associated with junior year. So far, junior year has been surreal. I haven’t gotten over summer, and I definitely haven't accepted my schedule and classes and teachers just yet. I’m in a weird transition period. It doesn’t help that guidance neglected to put physics into my schedule, and that everything got really messed up. So, I’ve just been a wreck.
Aside from all the physics nonsense, the inability to forget about laying on the beach, and waking up to an alarm buzzing at 5:34 in the morning, I've been outstanding. I'm trying something new this year- no stress. We'll see how THAT goes. Anything's possible right?
Seriously though, I'm expecting junior year to be hard. I'm not going to pretend that I'm not scared out of my mind...4 AP classes is a lot, as I am already finding out. However, I've always had confidence in my abilities as a student, and I am SO up to the challenge. I secretly love late night studying, those butterflies in my stomach before every test, and the lack of nails that I will no doubt have by the middle of October. The hectic acedemic schedule is what keeps me going, and keeps me motivated.
I expect a lot out of myself this year. I feel older, wiser, and more mature than ever before. And with that, I'm ready to tackle the mountainous piles of homework, the demanding sports schedules, and the drama that consumes my social life at times. Bring it on. I expect to become a new me. Someone who's more confident, harder working, and enjoyable company for everyone.
As far as AP Lang is concerned, I'm looking forward to improving my writing skills, but more so than improvement, I'm looking for enjoyment. I don't necessarily like formal writing, so if i could somehow associate "fun" with writing, then my AP Lang goal would be accomplished. I also need to develop some more confidence in myself as a writer. I find myself second guessing a lot of the pieces that I write, and I don't like that. I want to be proud and confident of the work that I hand in. Enough about writing though. The other aspect of this class is reading, and I do love love love to read. I often find myself in a reading rut, so I would love it if this class gave me a taste of different styles and types of literature. I already LOVED Their Eyes Were Watching God, and it's probably one of my new favorite novels.
The physical and social aspects of my life right now? Well, they're doing just fine. One word- soccer. Soccer consumes my life from July through October and I wouldn't have it any other way. The sport does a world of good for all aspects of my personal life. It relieves stress, and helps me stay dedicated and display self discipline. It also keeps me in shape, and stirs my competitive side. The best part, however, is the social aspect. I have 20 girls who I know I can turn to for anything. The Oakcrest Girls Soccer Team is a family, and that's that. So I'm doing just dandy right now with all of that stuff.
Junior year is going to be an adventure no matter what, but I'm so excited and so ready to get started. We'll see how I feel in a few months...
In response to Tamari- I admire you for your decision to challenge yourself this year by taking AP Lang. It takes a special person to be able to step up to the plate the way you have. I understand that you're feeling intimidated, but you can't let that affect you. And don't ever feel inferior! Everyone is different, and everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. I'm sure that you're going to be fine, and if you're feeling stressed or if you need help you can turn to almost anyone in the class. We're all just a bunch of nerds anyway :) and chances are we're stressed out and worried too. Also, I believe that everything happens for a reason, and there's a reason why you took AP Lang this year. Good luck girl!
The past two years have been difficult, but nothing scares me more than this new school year. Of course, I am terrified for junior year. There is definitely doubt in my head that tells me that I won’t make it. Even now, with work piling on every week, I don’t ever have a spare moment. It makes me wonder how long I can keep this up, but I know that’s what I have to do. I came into the school year with the intent of working very hard because I know most colleges demand it. I have never thought so much about my future in such a short span of time. But even with all the thinking, I feel as if I have gotten nowhere. I don’t know what I want to major in. I don’t know where I will be in five years. I just don’t know. And let me just say, it’s just a little nerve-racking not knowing, but I know it’s just all a process. It will work out in the end. It has to.
I am hoping that AP Lang will help me greatly educationally and personally. I know that by the end of our time together, I will have learned over a hundred vocab words and my SATs score will definitely go up in this department (hopefully). Plus, I pray that my writing improves much more and I hope I have an easier time writing. Meaning, I won’t take the usual 657864327864 hours to type up my papers. But more than that, I’m hoping to find a comfort zone. I’m hoping that I can walk in this class and be completely who I am. I want to able to speak my thoughts, while feeling confidant doing so. But I know it’s not going to be cakewalk. Like all my other AP classes, Lang will need a lot of devotion. I’m just scared that I’m not going to be able to stay on top of it.
Even with all the stress at hand, there is so much to look forward to. I want to do things right this year. I have made mistakes in the past with my schoolwork, my friends, and my priorities. In a sense, this is the chance for me to start over. Academically, I feel like I’m taking off with a good start. I’m on top of work and everything seems to be okay. Socially, I have a few great friends that I absolutely love. I would do anything for them, but that doesn’t mean I haven’t lost some on the way. Right now, I feel as if that’s my biggest concern (losing the people that once meant so much to me). Physically, I feel as if I could try harder. I know exactly where I want to be for cross country. It’s just getting there that’s the hard part. When I’m running, there is always some sort of pain, some sort of excuse that I make up in my head that tells me I should stop. Sometimes, it gets the best of me. But I choose to run because it’s relaxing. During a three mile race, for those twenty-some minutes, all I think about is the race. Nothing else. No problems. No stress. Just running. All of this can really take a toll on me sometimes. And right now, I don’t know if I’m in a stable state, but I will be and that’s something to hope for.
All in all, I’m just hoping to end the school year with no regrets. Of course I am going to work my butt off, but as the days are counting down ‘til goodbyes, I want to make the most of it. That’s a little easier to say than do (especially when you’re caught up in AP work), but I’m hoping I can pull it off.
I just wanted to comment on Hilary’s blog and say that it definitely brought a smile to my face while reading it :) Socially, I completely agree with her and feel the exact same way. It reallyyy should be that simple. “Love the ones who treat you right, forget about the ones who don't. I'm a rather simple person in that regard. I'm a loyal friend and whole-heartedly trust everyone until they give me a reason not to. After that trust is gone, it is really hard to gain it back.” If you’re living life that way, I have to say you’re doing pretty good darn job up to this point. This is something really hard to live by, especially when life keeps throwing a bunch of lemons at you. Stay true!
Thanks, Hilary. I'm glad that someone thought my outlook was reasonable.
Frankly, after reading everyone else's posts, I feel really guilty. And ambitionless. Everyone else has a plan.
Difficult, unfair, tear-jerking, time-consuming, stressful, arduous, and excruciating; I have been told that these would one day be the words I myself would use to describe my junior year of high school. I have been told that during my junior year, I would begin to see just how few hours exist in a single day, and that each of these hours would be filled with typing, memorizing, writing notes, reading, reviewing, and studying. So far, I am already beginning to find it difficult to “put myself in the moment”, as I had been told by Mr. Costal, through these first few days of school. Knowing of the tests and assignments that lay ahead of me has only filed my mind of what tomorrow or the next week will bring. The truth is that I know junior year is a big deal because it is the year when colleges try to see just how dedicated and intelligent of a person you are. It is the year to prove yourself and to try to hold on to the future goals you wish to accomplish. I already know that this year will be the most difficult I will pursue in my high school career. Teachers are already looking for good first impressions in case they are asked for a recommendation by that very student for their dream college, classmates are already discussing SAT scores and class rank, and administrators are ready to see which students become the most involved in school activities.
Personally, I want this to be the year when I find myself, to help me become more distinctive in my goals and future plans. I also want to become more confident, learn to handle stress, and discover new ways to manage my time; all qualities that I know will help me later in life. In my AP Language class, I want to be introduced to new writers and hopefully become a faster reader. Reading has always been a major issue for me, but hopefully reading more will help me improve. I also hope that my SAT score will improve with all of these vocabulary words we should be getting. One thing I fear, specifically about AP Language class, is messing up on a writing assignment because the truth is that I am a good writer with a variety of ideas and, unlike most people, I love to write introductions. I have never been a good public speaker, but when I write, I can express my feeling so much more fluently. In general, though, I fear giving up. Very rarely have I ever given up on anything, but for my entire life, I have always wanted to experience “life on the edge”. The only thing I really have a passion to do in life is travel, but I know that this will get me no where in life financially. So, hopefully I will be able to keep up and succeed in all of my classes this year for the sake of benefitting my future.
Furthermore, I do believe that I am academically satisfied with where I am now because I am satisfied with my class rank, and I know that even if I do not get such good grades this year, at least I will know that I tried my best. Socially, I am no where near where I would like to be. In school, I am shy, quite, extremely awkward, and always nervous. Close friends are something that I lack, and I never feel confident enough to be myself. Physically, I am also no where near where I would like to be because I feel weak, and I strongly believe it interferes with me mentally. The unfortunate part is that I have been feeling the same way about myself for as long as I can remember, but hopefully this year I will change for the better.
In response to Kelly N.:
The part about your response that got my attention was when you said, “I have never thought so much about my future in such a short span of time.” I could not agree more that this year is very demanding upon our futures. Already, people are expecting us to know exactly where we want to go to college and what we want to do as a career. To me, it is very stressful, especially considering all of the assignments and classes we have to focus on right now. Also, I am trying to make it my goal this year as well to be confident and be myself, especially in AP Language. I remember Ms. Bunje telling us during the summer enrichment class that if we do not open up in her class, we will most likely not do so well. I also liked the fact that you are trying to make the best out of the years you have left of high school. What seems to be a million years away from now (graduation) is most likely going to come more quickly than any of us really think it is.
Eva there's no reason to feel guilty (or ambitionless) about how you feel. Frankly, I admire your "I do what I want" attidtude. Seriously, it's really refreshing. I truthfully wish that I could have the same confindence in myself as you do in yourself and the ability to get beyond a number on a peice of paper. I hope to accomplish that this year, but, hey, who knows? You let your soul guide you and tell you what's right and that's awesome! Lastly, I really hope you don't feel bad about anything. First of all, not everyone has a plan. Me, personally, I'm going to try to just go with the flow, however cliche it sounds. I think you have many ambitions you're just not sure of what they are yet. I think that you are on the right track to success and no one should ever make you feel differently, whether on purpose or by accident. You are an extremely intelligent, young lady and I can see you being very prosperous in whatever YOU choose to do with your life. Overall, Eva, listen to your heart and it will lead you down the right path.
Tamari, I also would like to congradulate you. As Devon, it takes a very special and talented person to make the step up to AP. I think you'll be fine. From what I've read here, in the blog, you're a pretty good writer. I hope that you realize there's nothing to be apphrensive about, and if there is, we're all going through the same thing. However, should anything ever make you nervous or anxious or what ever, remember: we all in this together (haha, how lame was that, a HSM refrence. I watch way too much t.v. with my younger sister :) ) and I'm sure anyone is willing to help should you need it. I know I will. Good luck, not only to Tamari, but to everyone else, as well.
I really don't have any expectations for this year since I have no clear idea of what we are going to be studying, BUT I know I need improve my SAT reading skills my like 10 fold. No matter how many times I do those practices, I just don't seem to be able to pick up on the right strategy for taking these things. The AP test truly is important and I want to get a 5 on it (though I would be satisfied with just a 3), but SAT is still of a higher priority. Something that has been eating away at my mind year after year has got to be, right? That pretty much covers all that I expect out of my junior year. I need good grades and good test scores really bad. This will be the "work my butt off" year. Senior year will be more relaxed and my chance to get the much deserved rest that Im sure I will need.
Im really not afraid of anything in this class. I mean, I chose to be in it and Im ready for any work that will be thrown at me and any unsatisfactory grades that I may receive. Im just glad that Ive got my friends behind me to help me through the bad times and celebrate the good times. My only problem is going to be the 4 hours used up by standing behind a cash register. It might seem to be too early to get a job, but Im practically already 17, and I have to start making these annoying and difficult "growing up" steps. Oh well, I guess I just gotta bear through it all and come out on top.
Yeah, you said it Harleen. Quite frankly I have gone through the same cycle of thoughts that you have. Last year's classes weren't easy, and since Mrs. Bunje isnt teaching us CP stuff, Ap Lang isn't going to get any easier. I also have many friends who have been making little jokes about AP. Since a lot of my friends are from CP classes, those kinds of things are to be expected. But, I like to think of myself as a motivator for my smarter friends. I know that a few amongst them, are going in to AP classes next year. They have no idea what its like, but I've got a year (soon to be 2 years) of experience in AP classes and Ill be guiding them and making sure that they don't screw up and make the same dumb mistakes I did. Lastly, the expectation that you mentioned is definately there. Through all the work, I feel obligated and responsible to stand among the other 400-some juniors and not only bear through this difficult class, but also succeed in it. Seems like a lot of responsibility to place on the backs of only a few students, but I guess we are better suited for it than some other juniors that I know in this schoool.
Matt W I completely agree with on how it's being drilled into our heads how important this year is for us. And the pressure that is put upon us is even worse. No one has even told once to just relax for at least five minuets to take a breath. It's like constant work 24/7. But what you said about living in the moment is wonderful advice. It's exactly what i need to do. Pressure is only there if i feel that it is. Junior year in high school will never come again, so i need to enjoy it as it is.
Toughest? Most demanding? Well it might be the most demanding year because of the SATs and the HSPA that most of the juniors will hopefully take and pass this year, but other than that I don’t think it will be as difficult as we were told by the all our friends, family, teachers, and etc. What they told us was probably just a scare so that we, the former underclassmen, would open our eyes and actually pay attention this year. I mean it’s not like most of us haven’t taken AP classes before. We all know how all the teachers “roll” and yes it will be tough at first but we will all persevere.
This year should bring about bliss or at least happiness in new and old friendships, grades, and experiences. There’s always room for new friends especially because I don’t see most of my friends in my classes (cry me a river yadaah yadaah yadaah), but I want to keep my old friendships and I will I succeed in that. Yessuh! This is the year that counts the most in terms of picking out colleges so I actually have to get organized to prosper in my academic career! =(.There’s no better way to learn than by experiences so what the heck I’ll join more clubs this year.
Ummmmm…I’m hoping to learn how to become a better writer and all the wonders of life AP Lang will teach me. And well I hope the 11th grade will make me smarter, wiser, and the best me I can be. =)
I could be doing better academically but don’t worry I’m trying the best I can and will try to continue this pattern throughout the year. Do I really have to answer this one? Man…. I still have to accept my “blossoming” body its pretty disgusting the way I see it but whatever. Uhhhh…. I guess I’m emotionally stable? I just have my moments where I break down like anyone else. I mean I am human.
Bye peoples <3
To define my high school career, I can’t just use my junior year. My high school career has a lot to do with my junior year, but not everything depends on it. Yes, SATS are this year and HSPA, but if I don’t do as well on them as I would like then I can always retake them my senior year, not that I would care to. This year is a stepping stone, like every other to make me more prepared for the really difficult things ahead like college, and life. I have loved my high school English experiences, and expect this year to be no different. They all require a lot of hard work but it makes it worth it in the end to be with my peers. I feel that this year should be a huge slap in the face, and that’s exactly how I want it to be. I want this year to be gruesome and challenging and push me to do things I haven’t experienced yet. (For example, staying up all night doing homework) I’m hoping to get out of this year a strong work ethic, and a clear head. From AP Language in general I want to be able to read things, but really read them. I want a deeper sense of what I’m reading instead of the usual in one part of the brain stored without a lot of purpose. I’ve compiled a lot of books in my head, and am dying to see the hidden meanings and messages that I so naively missed. Already through discussion I’ve learned that my thinking level has just reached the bottom of the scale and I would to rise on that scale and read intelligently. This year my biggest fear is being behind. I’m not the brightest crayon in the box and it takes me a little to catch on to things, but I work really hard at things but is there a time when working hard can only get you so far?
You have to be able to really think about things in a way that normal people don’t think about them. That’s a really hard skill and something that has ceased to happen yet. When I saw my score on the diagnostics test, I got really nervous. I’ve never been the best test taker. That also gives me a scare for SAT and HSPA. I know HSPA is labeled as really easy, but what if I don’t do amazing? There are such high standards around me and all I want to do is do my best, but it always feels good to look at what you’ve done and see that you actually accomplished the task in front of you. I only have two APs and an honors class, but to me that’s a lot. Compared to others it is really nothing, but for me it’s really difficult and I knew that going into it, which is why I’m not overwhelmed just a little worried. Academically I could not ask for more, I’ve been blessed with the ability to be in the higher classes and still maintain a relatively high GPA. I’ve worked hard in what I have taken on and have no problem with accepting exactly where I feel on the totem pole. Physically I wish I wasn’t so tired all the time, but that problem is probably of my own making. I’m a night owl and a late riser, a bad match for the school hours. Other than I can’t complain, of course there’s thing that could be better, but I’ve been working on loving who I am for a while. I’m more of the person who accepts what’s given to me and works with everything I have. It doesn’t disappoint me that I don’t wear a size 2 or smaller, that’s never been a priority. Socially I have one goal for the year and am going to do everything in my power to reach that. I want to make a difference here, and I know exactly the role I want to take on to make that possible, and yes I talk about this way too much. I want to be student council president or vice president. It’s something I love which I can do with friends and also make a difference. It’s been a goal of mine since I first sat in the first meeting my freshman year. To me that is exactly where I want to be socially at the end of the year. My friends are amazing, they know when to pick up, bring back to earth, and when to be the goofy, fun loving, serious, inspiring, best friends that I love. I’m exactly where I want to be, I know this because every morning I walk into school with a smile on my face and know that each day is going to get me one step closer to becoming the exact adult I want to be.
Molly hit the nail on the head, “My fear is that I will give up. I know I could easily slip into the nonchalant attitude and not have a care about any of my school work, but I refuse to let that happen this year.” It is so hard come April and May to keep the faith, but I feel that’s what this class is for. It is like the class should be our own little support group where we help everyone! So Molly, in April and May if your confidence is diminishing think of this: you’re amazing, and every since I met you I’ve been in awe. You can do anything and that AP is nothing compared to you. You’re worth so much more than 80 dollars and college credits :) Everyone in here is worth so much more, we just have to prove it to ourselves.
In response to ashley's comment, "I am shy, quite, extremely awkward, and always nervous," I understand completely how you feel.. I used to be just like that when I was younger. It's not fun watching everyone gallivant with their friends while you're awkwardly alone. I understand that breaking out of that shell is a hard process. It's like leaving a comfort zone that's completely structured so you aren't let down. But you only experience high school once! Don't be afraid to show your true colors. Join lots of clubs or do a sport! I don't know where I would be if I hadn't joined the soccer team. Seriously, you'll regret it if you don't leave that comfort zone. AND to hilary, that's what I put on my star too! :) Well not the same EXACT thing but close enough!
Over the summer as distant relatives, friends of the family, and other people who just didn’t happen to be up on “how fast I’ve grown” were asking me what grade I would be going into this year, I couldn’t help but have mixed feelings arise while answering. After telling them that this will be my junior year, their responses have generally all been the same. They either get wide eyed and tell me about how important the year would be for me, or they ask me about which colleges I’m most interested in. Needless to say, neither of these two statements are what any teenage kid in high school really wants to think about or hear from someone who’s been there. That means they’re probably right. In all honesty, I have tried exceedingly hard to keep myself in check and be the kind of person (and student) that remembers that everyone has to go with the flow and take things as they come to survive. Getting overly stressed and excited about things in the future just seems to clutter my mind, and thinking logically and clearly becomes a problem. Everything seems to go down hill from there with me. Once I get that oh-my-God-what-am-I-doing?-I’M-WASTING-AWAY-MY-CHILDHOOD!-I-don’t-have-enough-fun sense of self, I see myself start to lose my footing. This happens every so often. I won’t lie. I need that extra jolt to actually put ALL my homework and books from my locker into my bag at the end of the day, even if it means walking funny in the hall and leaning to the side of me that has my bag on it. At these times, all I need to consider is that I’m living the life that every adult wishes they could go back in time and re-do. Recently, my dad surprised me and came into my room as I was getting ready at 5:30 in the morning. He made a point to get out of bed and say, “I was just thinking about how lucky you are. When I was your age, the colleges you can get into would have laughed at me. You have a great life ahead of you.” I’m challenging myself in every way I can, and I’m going to end up making a good life for myself. How do I know this? I can feel it. (It’s okay to be a little self assured. Like Molly and others have said, it’s pretty much necessary for survival with our lifestyle.) We live in this self-created AP bubble in Oakcrest. Our internal drive even shows in the way that we walk (more like run for no reason) in the halls to get from one class to the other. While everyone else just seems to drift, we know where we’re headed even if it’s only a general direction as of now, and that’s okay. I know that, for me, it’s all I have to go by. That internal drive. I have no idea how I got here. Somewhere along the line I must have picked the right turn at the fork in the road. Who knows what’s going to happen. I’m definitely still on one road or another. Even if I can’t read the street signs, all I can do is try my best (making sure to ask for directions on the way) and live with no regrets.
What do I want to get out of this year? Well I yearn to be able to speak and know that people want to hear what I have to say. This seems to be a stumbling point for me. I have ideas in my head that never seem to get past my mouth due to no one’s fault but my own. I feel that AP lang will give me that chance to open up. Seeing that every year I seem to have new people in my classes, I think of it as a new start to what I want to become eventually. That’s how everyone should look at any year. Not only junior year, but any year or chance a person gets to better his or her self should be taken. I have a huge problem of procrastination that every year I seem to say I will get rid of. With three AP classes this year, (I feel dumb compared to some of you who are taking way more!) I will have to make a huge leap within that goal. That’s okay with me. Sometimes good stress is all that is needed to make improvement. Like Devon said about the butterflies she gets before a test and secretly loving to study late into the night, I get pride out of a job well done (we will go get manicures later in October okay?!). That’s how I’m hoping to look back upon this year and this class.
Towards the end of last year and the beginning of this one, I have become more satisfied with my social life than ever. I have a great group of friends that I can always rely on for support and advice. I know that they have intellectual things to say, and also value my opinions. That is the best feeling in the world, and I accredit it to being in these demanding classes. I never would have met these amazing, deep people. I want to continue with my growing confidence and sociality. Study groups are going to be a must, and I’m very excited about that!
This “big year” means growing up and mentally preparing myself to move out on my own and starting a completely different phase in my life. I know that it will be nothing even remotely close to the chapter I have been living in for the past sixteen years. I can’t even see myself there yet, so what’s the point of stressing? For now I’m happy, and that’s all I can hope for at any stage in my life.
^ about 1,000 words in case you were wondering.. ha
I really liked what Molly said. “These classes will surely be difficult, don’t get me wrong, but I know who I am, and what I am capable of doing. But that is the standard in the world today, kids are expected to perform at the higher level, and be better than whoever came before them. With that comes fear, but also a sense of drive.” I can completely agree with what she said. This sums up my whole reasoning behind pushing myself to be better than before. I’m beginning to realize that I’m not the only one that feels this overwhelming need to succeed, as corny as that sounds.
Walking in to this year with extreme hunger (for food, learning, and destruction), I must say that stress has not bothered me much at all. You know, people constantly barrage you with the idea that junior year is the hardest. For the most part, I think that’s correct. The work is enormous and some subjects seem to make no sense whatsoever (Thanks, Mrs. Baird). I gotta say though, that I have all the confidence in the world that this year will pass fine.
As far as expectations go, I’m not exactly looking for academic milestones, but more of the personal and mental milestones. No offense, Bunje, but I chose your class because I have that carnage for changing my perspective on the world. Sure, good grades will be great, but they always take a backseat to the lessons that I hope to use throughout my life. I’ve always felt the educational system fails in retrospect because it merits kids for being “smart”. My perception of intelligence is a whole lot different than the “intelligence” a piece of paper dictates. A smart person is a critical thinker, not a memorizer. A smart person concerns themselves with others, and isn’t infatuated by useless garbage. My goal this year is to improve myself as a person, as a friend, and as a thinker. And I know I’ll accomplish all three.
As weird or egotistic as it sounds, I don’t think I have any fears for the year. People say overconfidence is an Achilles’ heel. I beg to differ. Fear breeds contempt and an irrational fear of the unknown. I’ve always found that holding my head high and riding on dreams and goals is the way to succeed. I have no doubt in my mind that I can live up to the expectations that I have for myself.
I’m pretty content with who I am, though being less lazy would be a great achievement for myself. Procrastination and I go along like Nutella and bread. Hopefully, I can change that (it looks like Biology is forcing me to change). Good grades on my AP tests are an obvious goal, as are getting good grades.
Socially, I wish to better myself for myself. I don’t mind people’s perception of me in the slightest. Think what you want, because everyone sees the world through a clouded vision of reality. Nearly all our perceptions (including my own) of other people are wrong, so I refuse to let it phase me. My goal is to broaden my outlook on life, the world, and other people. If I can accomplish that, I know I’ve done something right.
It’s times like these that makes me happy to be the person I am. I’m not a slave to the grind, nor am I a part of this "teenage wasteland". I am myself, and am proud of it.
I think Chicago Bears great Mike Ditka put it best;
“Success isn't measured by money or power or social rank. Success is measured by your discipline and inner peace.”
Right on, Iron Mike. So my advice to all of you; calm down, take a deep breath, and realize that you control your own fate. Viel Glück on the journey that is the 11th grade!
Bring it on.
-Janiru
And in response to Matt Capone’s blog;
My thought’s exactly. Every wonder why a lot of “smart” people go nowhere in life? It’s because they lack the self-control that they fail to teach in school. Schools should at least attempt to teach life lessons. It’s the dark side of the moon for most people (are you getting tired of my mundane references to great music?). Don’t’ take this class to please everyone around you. Take it to discover your own identity, and to impress yourself. Don’t be a slave to letters and grades, but be the master of your own self. It's not like we have a strong need for mindless drones in society. Thank you for your insight, Mr. Capone.
P.S; Daft Punk?
It is not possible to write this blog with too much experience because junior year has just begun. I have always learned to overcome my obstacles whether they are in school, injuries, or anything that steps up in front of me. People say that junior year is the toughest year because of pressure, school work, and the academics are generally more demanding. It has also been said that, “We don’t recognize the significant moments of our lives while they’re happening. We grow complacent with ideas, or things, or people, and we take them for granite.” I could say that junior will be the hardest and most demanding year of high school but I have not had enough experience in the year to make that judgment. I have been warned about colleges looking at your junior year the most, the SAT’s, the ACT’s, various difficult courses, and success in sports. From all of these warnings junior year is made up to be the toughest year in high school. Most likely, people say that junior year is the toughest year out of high school because they have experienced it and know now how hard junior year truly was compared to all of the other years. For me this year will be really hard because of my leg, sports, and of course academics. I have pushed through any pain that I have ever had and no one has ever known half of it. As much as I try to move on from my injury the scars will always be there. Don’t get me wrong here, school means a lot to me, but this is my “big” year for softball. I expect obstacles this year as well as new outlooks on my own opinions; the best learning is what you can learn from others. School is what you make it and if I apply myself to junior year I will gain a lot of knowledge. Since you get what you give, I will give this AP class as much as I can, and I will expect the same in return I am sure of that. My main fear in junior year and the AP class is that I will regret anything. I would hate to look back years from and say “I wish I did this or that differently.” Other fears of mine are that I will not recognize the significant moments in my life until they are over, and that I will grow complacent with people and things around me. I never want to take things for granite but sometimes you don’t realize what you have until it is gone. My friends are great people and as far as the social aspect goes, I don’t need anything else with these great people in my life. :) Academically and physically I can always improve because I am not perfect.
In response to Hayley-
Hey girl,
All of your concerns are very understandable and I am on the same page as you. Sports and academics have always been demanding, what makes junior year so different? I loved how you said, “However, I have to think, is really one year of your life going to determine the rest of it?” That was exactly what I was thinking and I still feel that way. One year may lead to the next but it certainly does not determine the rest or your life. College scholarships are great and as long as you keep up your hard work any college would be foolish to not accept you. I am right there with you on the summer mode too. Just keep it up and you will be successful in no matter what you choose to do in life. Keep your friends along side of you and remember that they are always there for you. <3
2008 was the first year that I had ever heard that junior year is harder than sophomore. For quite a while I had been told that sophomore year was, without a doubt, the hardest year of both high school and college. And while I don't doubt that many students have found junior year more difficult, I feel inclined to continue believing that 11th grade will not match up to 10th grade. Tenth grade was a bit traumatizing for me. I've been placed in an unfamiliar environment, undergone a great many changes, learned a lot about myself, and done things I never before believed I would have been capable of doing. I can understand if this doesn't really sound too bad to the average person, so allow me to illustrate the feeling. Imagine you are standing in a park with your family. All of a sudden, your foot is ensnared by a rope which drags you, at high speed, across grass and gravel, into a small hole in the ground. There is just enough room to squirm a bit, and you reach up for the hole. The hole is covered over. A single heartbeat passes before spasms ripple all over your body, forcing you into a contorted fetal position as your muscles begin to protrude outward in new directions, stretching and occasionally breaking through the flesh, digging into the earth around you like tendrils probing for prey. Your head makes a heard jerk forward as a growth breaks free from your spine, shooting upwards, through to the surface. Finally, the trembling subsides, and layers peel back from the tip of the growth that had found air, revealing the calm flower of summer.
Perhaps this is an exaggeration, but if you were to take the median between the two descriptions I've given-
That might be a little to intense as well. It's entirely possible. Regardless, tenth grade as a whole was not a pleasant experience. Now, while I expect a lot of difficulty from my junior year, academically, I believe I will be able to keep my personal problems at bay, and keep my priorities in order, well enough to avoid another mutated flower-monster year. Still, I could see AP Lang throwing me off the edge, (and into the hole.) and ruining my year. I suppose the best case scenario, which I make a point to always hope for, but never expect, is to gain the ability to study, something previously unattainable. This would help my rather unsatisfactory grades and in the case of AP Lang, perhaps help my writing ability, which feels like it has stagnated over the past few years. The worst case scenario, which I make a point to attempt to ignore altogether, is that I get bogged down with homework, become fixated on another unattainable goal, and am once again faced with the sexual harassment I dealt with in my freshman year. I could go into these things, but I am running a bit long, so I will leave them for another time. Thankfully, I will not have to deal with the common problem of obsessing over the opposite sex. I have said it in 12th period AP Lang, but for the benefit of those who did not hear, I shall immortalize my discovery of the true nature of love here.
“Love is a stalking contest between two scary people who remain in close proximity with one another until one of the people becomes so afraid of the other that they run away, at which point the other person will hunt down and eliminate them.”
-Brendan Armstrong
I doubt I will find any girls this year who agree to my terms of love. If I do, I will have both true happiness and a violent, unstable girlfriend who could attack me at any time to deal with, making school a bit less relevant.
To answer the final questions without any real segue, I am unhappy with all three qualities listed. Academically, I'm sub-par. I'm socially incompetent, scarcely able to speak to people I don't know. And physically, I'm just rather weak and unhealthy. I suppose I can attribute these attributes to a lazy nature. Still, with a new year comes a new set of chances. Hopefully I'll be able to get off my bum and grab one this year.
Well, that was a bit late. Hopefully someone will still decide that a post by me could turn out interesting and come back to read it.
I think that this year is going to be a LONG year as the first four days felt like 2 months… I hope that this year starts to pick up the pace, however not too much! I am anticipating a rather intense year academically as well as with my extracurricular activities. The shadow of college choices and where to go and what to do is daunting, but I have a few flashlights with spare batteries, let’s hope I don’t run out.. I have been hearing from teachers, guidance councilors, my parents, and just about everyone else on the planet that your Junior year of high school is the hardest and most important year of all, and frankly, that gives me the chills. Yet, my room is still messy, and I still procrastinate, so the world is not ending yet. So I look ahead at the world as it glances my way, with the choices before me, and the ones behind me all passing judgment, I just wish I had a time machine with an instant replay, a “redo” and a theatrical trailer for each possible ending.
My expectations for this year are for a lot of fun, great memories, and mountains of work. I will be disappointed if the year fails to bring any of these things. AP Lang is going to be difficult and I hope to gain a better understanding of the English language and how to use it to my purposes. All of my teachers are great and I am getting along with all of them so far. My fears for this class are vocabulary, falling behind, getting bad grades, and vocabulary (evil demon of doom). My fears for this year are: 1) doing poorly in the Band season, 2) doing poorly in ANY class (except physical education), and 3) Not finding colleges that fit what I want (or a major to go with it).
Academically I am have a little room to shuffle forward in the class rank and GPA arenas, but other than that, I am as snug as a bug under a rug in the honors/AP track. The class rank/GPA stuff is from bad vocabulary scores consistently through the last two years. The AP, well that is my parents being pushy and my own natural brilliance. Socially, I could use a little bit more “time on the town” but I have band to keep me occupied and I’m not unhappy with my life now, though it is about to become a whole lot more busy… this is probably due to my own laziness and procrastination. Physically, wow, I’m doing great! This is because I am superb? Or maybe because I don’t eat pizza and fries for lunch everyday like I used to.
- Ali B
I had to comment on a few more things:
“I can’t possibly be ready to make major decisions that will affect me for the rest of my life now, can I? It just seems like everyone is always in a rush and always forced to look towards the future…”
When I read Matt W say this, it really hit home. I often find myself doing work or walking to my guidance counselor thinking, “how on earth can the decisions I make at sixteen be seriously connected to my life when I’m in my sixty’s and seventy’s!? Who thought this was a good idea?! Letting us pick our classes. Psh.” Now, this year, I see that I really have all the maturity to make the necessary decisions. It wasn’t something that happened over night or anything, but I know that I can do it. I have faith in myself to step my game up and truly take initiative in setting up the rest of my life. This is the beginning of it after all!!
"Self, you need to really pick it up this year. No slacking allowed!" But, eventually, I fall back into the same old habits; saving homework till the last minute, not studying for tests, and putting everything off.”
Maegan, you’re obviously an amazing writer and I wish I was in one of your classes! You’re so much fun, and I really learned a lot by watching you make comments in Costal’s class like it was just you and him talking. You have the right idea about not just floating along anymore. This year is about pushing yourself to your limits. No more resting on your laurels or good genes. I loved your conversation to yourself. I can picture you brandishing your finger in your own direction !! ha ha
And Janiru? I love everything you say. You inspire me to be more intune with myself and to be my own 'AP grader' so thank you for that.
As for a comment on a comment, it seems like alice h has the kind of attitude that can push her through the year. I see classes as interesting, but rarely fun. Still, happiness with academic standing isn't something many people can attain. Keep pushing forward!
Also, an anime/manga club? I certainly like both of those things very much, but what could they do? Read? Draw? It could be an excellent idea if well thought out. The only cooler club I could think of would be a video game club, and THAT's never happening.
COMMENTING ON WHAT TARAH SAID :) ::
"Getting overly stressed and excited about things in the future just seems to clutter my mind, and thinking logically and clearly becomes a problem." <-- i couldn't have said it better myself. Those times where your parents won't stop bugging you about your future and success can be extremely overwhelming. But even though you have some of the same fears as most of us, you know yourself well enough to be able to work through it in your own way. I honestly admire how you are able to see yourself heading downhill before you actually do. Well keep up what you're doing because it's definitely working. You are on the road to a rewarding future, girl!
Junior year can easily become a demanding year, depending on the amount of time and effort you put into it. As a student engaged in a variety of AP classes who hopes and expects so much from himself, I see this as the year that needs to be strong. It may not be as intense as I predict it to be, but I must inevitably be ready to work hard and stay consistent in my efforts. Some fellow peers may think, "What ever, I'm going to do things how ever I please and just get by. I'm probably going to college anyway." My attitude on the matter of being a Junior and young scholar are twisted from many. My imminent proceeds is sighting to attend one of the military academies of West Point or Annapolis to become both an officer and a gentleman. Evaluations for the academy begin December of your Senior year, meaning the fate of my lifetime lies upon what I manage to do in the upcoming months to this time. By know means do I believe this year will become overwhelming for my mental scope, but the pressure of a gorgeous opportunity weighs on my mind.
I really expect a lot out of my time in AP Language. A good or even tremendous score on the test would be fine and dandy, but that is not the only thing I seek on this small journey in life. In a extremely bold and broad statement, I simple wish to be a better writer. Whether it be an improvement in my somewhat decrepit vocabulary or fixing of the grammatical mistakes that still seem to pop-up in my writing, I fancy that I will increase my writing ability. From all the praises I've heard of Ms. Bunje and her teaching methods, I expect nothing less as long as I commit to the work load. As far as my Junior year as a whole, I believe from a social, academic, and athletic aspect it will be one of the best years of my life.
As far as success in school, there is always room for betterment in your workmanship. To be satisfied with the amount of knowledge you possess is to fail your own knowledge. You should always be seeking education in some form, especially at this age. I take my social aspect in small consideration when I am at school. I do not intentionally try to be "odd" or "weird"; however, what I am as a person is what I am. If you truly choose not to be my friend, I could give a rat's ass on what you think. Unfortunately, with both cheerfulness and sorrow, I probably will never be associated with my peers again once we walk down the long White and Blue line of accomplishment. I will say I am pretty content with my physical position at this time. I am very hardy and muscular, but at the same time my cardiovascular system is excellent for my size. Along with my constantly repeated fantasy on the idea I will attend the military's most prestige educational systems, I would also like to play football while attending the academies. If I was about twenty or so pounds hardier then I currently am, it would only better my chances of being accepted and playing for the schools of my dreams. Hopefully this physical body type can be filled by the end of next summer. I look forward and hope high on the times to come in the next nine months.
Lindsey, what you was so true.
"My friends are amazing, they know when to pick up, bring back to earth, and when to be the goofy, fun loving, serious, inspiring, best friends that I love. I’m exactly where I want to be, I know this because every morning I walk into school with a smile on my face and know that each day is going to get me one step closer to becoming the exact adult I want to be."
You are the girl that walks in to school with a positive attitude, and the girl that I can go to when I am down. And when you said you walk into school each day getting one step closer to who you want to be, I thought that was truly inspiring. You have a purpose in life, and you don't let anyone get in your way. You are an amazing girl, and I know we can make it through this year together!
To Carly C
In response to your statements:
“Well...junior year to me means one year closer to being a senior, one year closer to graduating high school, and one year closer to ending my generally carefree life with my friends. Although it can be exciting and highly anticipated, when you really start to think about it, this 'journey,' as many administrators call it, is coming to an end and a new one will begin.”
I have to agree and this makes me remember a story my mom told me about her the end of her freshman year in college when she told her friends that they were nearly done college and they all replied that they were just beginning, when she told them, “Now we’re Sophomores, and that’s practically being a Junior, which is just as good as a Senior which is like your already gone.” All I have to say is I never knew how true that statement was until I rolled out of bed as a junior in high school before I was even used to being a sophomore. So, three cheers to Junior year, let’s make it a good one!
- Ali B
I agree completelyyyy with Kelly N. I know exactly what you mean and have the same fears and doubts about this year, but i think that if you don' t sweat the small stuff, like Maegan says, everything will be alright:). And I really know what you mean about the friend situation, and understand that you don't want to lose them, because I had the same fear going into this year. I have the same fear because I am not in classes with some of my good friends, and barely see them. But just keep thinking positive, and dont let yourself think that way, hopefully everything will turn out good!
Also Meg S. :) i think this year will definetly be funnn!
(continuing from my previous post) Having said everything about junior year being the most challenging (and reading other posts) I believe that the best way to get through the tough times that we inevitably face is to simply try to have fun. I know that it's a lot easier said than done, but it definitely helps. As more work starts to get piled on us, and each day we get more stressed out than the day before, it's always good to just take a little break and chill. You need to realize that simply because you do something poorly, it isn't the end of the world. After all, we're still only juniors in high school. We are supposed to make mistakes, and learning from those mistakes will make us better people. All we can do is work to our potential, and try to enjoy the little time we have left at the Oak.
In response to Eva's post - I really wish more people (including myself) had Eva's outlook on things. When I think about things that really matter to me, I don't think about my grade on a test or the numbers on my report card. "I judge my success by how much I enjoy myself". If you're doing all you can do and enjoying yourself, do grades really matter? I don't think so, and that is why I agree that our high school years should be about discovering who we are and forming relationships that will last long beyond our graduation.
A new year has come again. It has happened for over a decade, yet this time, it's different. The Junior year, especially for we AP students, is, to put it bluntly, really hard. The SATs, an increase in amount of AP classes, the outlook of college, and many other challenges lay ahead. Compared to this, the last two years were a cakewalk. Am I afraid? Frankly, no, not even slightly. I’m can’t fear the challenges ahead. It doesn’t matter whether it’s homework, applying for colleges, getting off my computer, or even stealing my own pants without myself noticing, there is no reason to worry. We have eyes for a reason. We need to use them to pay attention to the the people and objectives in front of us. We'll lose our way if we spend our time staring at every stone we see standing in the distance.
Our AP Lang class will be quite entertaining. Due to the sudden resurfacing of my interest in literature, there is no doubt that I'll love the subject matter. Good literature allows people to learn something beyond the scopes of formal education. That is enough for me. Sure, it'll still be without doubt difficult, but challenges are what break the monotony of life. . With an interesting teacher like Ms. Bunje, and new experiences, such as this blog, there is no doubt it will be unique. It won't be about rainbows and lollipops, but it'll be fun. I'll say this here. I'll probably do relatively horribly grade-wise. However, that isn't as important as the knowledge.
As always, I have established my image of “don't give a damn”. However, there are several things that I need to do. The first is to solve for myself the greatest problem for high school students. It is procrastination. I'll...say something about that later. The second problem would be simply staying alert during the day. I have made attempts to go to sleep early, and failed. However, I've begun running half a mile each morning. This wakes me up, and is quite healthy also. Third would be to continue to find ways I could help others, whether or not I actually know them. Sadly, I can't go off becoming some epic hero, saving others and exploring the world. The only part of such a fantasy in reach is doing as much as I can to improve society, and to try to make those around me a little bit happier, even if it means giving up part of my life, metaphorically and literally. Indeed, a sappy and foolish path to follow, but that’s what makes it great.
~~
By the way,after that, I need to make myself seem more uncaring, so here’s a heartless joke:
”Have you ever tried Ethiopian food?” “No” “Neither have they”
http://instantrimshot.com/
Well, got that out of the system. Black humor (look it up, ignore the unavoidable pun) aside, I’d like to compliment the idea of a blog. It gives a new level of interaction to the class. It allows us to talk as we wish, without being limited by time in class. That said, good luck to everyone, and I hope all of you have a good year. As long as you don't stress out too much, you'll be fine. Oh, about procrastination. It’s common. I’m not going to bother with it.
I understand why everyone says that junior year is the “toughest year of high school”, but I do not completely agree. I think that, yea, junior year may be a little challenging, but isn’t every year of school supposed to challenge you? I think junior year is “the toughest” because this is the year where everything changes. You find out some things that were unclear to you, you become more serious about school and colleges, and overall, you begin to grow as a person.
Attending Oakcrest is just like a chore to me. It’s not unpleasant though. I like it, it’s kind of fun. It would be nice to have the “fun pattern” continue for me. I love learning new things, as “dumb” as that might sound. Even if I am not successful in this class, or any class for that matter, I’ll enjoy taking it. That’s all I really want to get from English class. I want to acquire new knowledge and have fun doing it. Fears? I have no legitimate fears this year. Maybe that I will do poorly on the SATs, but that really sums up all of my fears.
Personally, I’ve been sitting back and lazily letting the years of my high school career pass me by. So to answer your question, no, I’ve not gotten to where I want to be academically at all. That’s okay with me though. Sure, I want to achieve more, but the most I can do now is try and see what I come up with. As for where I want to be socially, I am. It may not seem like it to outsiders but having few friends in Oakcrest couldn’t bother me any less. I used to be all woe is me, I had a life-threatening sickness… it ruined my life…I lost my friends, academic standing, and vision…but now I wouldn’t change what has happened in my life for anything. I’ve made so many new friend-visually impaired and blind, like me, but nonetheless- amazing people. They absolutely changed my life. They made me see that I was judging books by their covers all my life and now that I experienced looking past the cover, I came to find how much better life is. I have friends that I love, a boyfriend that’s amazing (<3), and an overall great life. Sure, physically I’m at the point of not caring. I used to be into fitness, but now I don’t mind so much how I look. I’m a lazy teen; I’m not into sports and all that, so much as sleeping.
Everyone is so cute. I love being able to read all these things. I just spent like half and hour going through everything on here. I'm such a nerd. Anyway, I'm so grateful to have you all as peers, and I think that everyone has brought up insightful points. Every single person's blog has made me reflect, in some way, upon myself. Everyone brings something different to the table, and I just love all the different viewpoints and opinions :)
And Tarah, manicures in October would be awesome!!
One specific year shouldn’t be so prominent in your education. Many teachers in the past have stated that school is a student’s job. In reality no matter what job someone has, they can’t only do extremely well one year and flop in past or future years. Every year should be considered because all require responsibility and discipline. People who have stability are usually successful and happy. A person who fluctuates between various work ethics should not be considered for a college or a job opportunity. Overall, your actions in junior year shouldn’t be meticulously analyzed when proceeding to further education. With every teacher, family member, and friend that constantly reminds you of the thought forces the feeling of having “Big Brother” watching over you. He is just waiting for the moment you get comfortable and slack off. It’s always that one mistake where for a split second your judgment is unclear, and the consequences are great. Everyone around you changes their perception of you.
As for my expectations, I’d like to say I don’t have any. It’s hard ignoring how every person has told you in some form that this is a tough year. Junior year will be insightful. It’s a not a smart idea to be indecisive and choose rough roads during this time. This year may even bring more maturity, since responsibility plays a decent role. It seems that advanced placement language will allow students to dissect text and see a different perspective of the writings by being analytical. Personally, I’m extremely analytical of everything I do. At night, I reflect on my day and conversations. Before talking or acting upon something, I make a mental pro and con list. I’m excited to learn how to be even more critical and seek depth further.
Hopefully, junior year will aid in stabilizing ‘my dream’ this year with academics and teaching me who I am. The summer took me through a huge transition of what I’m interested in to now knowing what career I want to establish. Conversations with various people led me to my plan of becoming a psychologist and working in a mental institution to help people. Nine more months of junior year will help that journey progress and aid in my career choice.
Never in my life have I received a ‘C’ in any class. That is a huge fear. Grades shouldn’t be a major concern, since class truly should be about knowledge you have gained over periods of time. Mr. Matlack recently described school comparing it to a candy shop. In this environment, you can grab all the knowledge your capable of holding in your pocket like a young child would do in a candy store. Although, knowledge is free and doesn’t have calories is what Mr. Matlack explained.
I fear ignorance and being naïve will continue to sit on my shoulders. Despite the fears, I’m happy where I am at physically and socially. However, academically I’m not satisfied. In my high school years, I’ve become very independent from peers. It’s pleasant to establish friendships, but it’s true that everyone will follow their own path into the unknown, unfamiliar world. I don’t revolve around friends or replicate them. Physically, I could participate in sports. I don’t have a competitive bone in my body. Honestly, I’m satisfied with playing sports with friends outside school and finding other ways to be involved in the community. Overall, I’ve accepted who I am physically and emotionally/mentally. I’m a firm believer that you have to accept and love yourself in order for others to. Gradually increasing my class rank has been difficult. I wish my parents motivated me and compelled me to do well. They truly don’t see the significance in college. Hard work rewards success. Hopefully, it’s not too late to religiously live by that phrase.
Junior year is going to be, not only the most important year of my time at Oakcrest, but the beginning of how I will be remembered by peers and teachers. For the past two years we have been placed into a cushioned world of forgetting homework, not studying for tests and frankly, being held responsible for none of these components to school. Now it is time to separate the elite one percent of the country from the students who are just tagging along for the ride. Who is really up for the challenge? Believe me, I question my roll in the “top” classes, and yes, I have concerns about my eventual success or failure. All I can do is capitalize on this junior year to make a dramatic mark on Oakcrest or at the very least my report card. As for expectations of this year, there can be none. We are thrown into this mess and left to sort it out. No one can know just how difficult school work, social conflicts or family matters are going to be this year until they are dropped on his/her lap. Whether I succeed or fail is a matter of how I handle those situations. Do I wait until the last day to read a book? This is all to be determined in the coming months. The only thing to do now is stay with it and hope for the best. What I hope to gain from my AP language class is something that I have no control over. A teacher’s job is to share the knowledge that she has gained from their many years of schooling to do what they love, or should love, doing, which is passing the knowledge on to the students. I place this burden on you, Ms. Bunje because you have the power to push, pull or drag us along until we get on our feet and realize that “Hey, I can do this”.
before commenting on someone's blog, I want to thank Matty W for the encouragement and for congratulating me:) i am pretty proud.THANKS and maybe you should stray away from tv and find another activity to do with your sister.lol
I'm going to comment on Brendana's blog, because i have to say, it was really impressive. I loved the detailed description of your sophomore year, for a moment there, I felt like I was reading a book. Even though I can't relate to it because sophomore year was easy and fun for me, I got a pretty good idea of what you went through as a sophomore.
also I would like to say that ashley S also had a great blog, mainly because it was so honest. I admire honesty in people.And I think we've all been at a point where we were shy and nervous.You just have to relax, and forget about others and what they think, and do what you want to do.
and uh, do punctuation and spelling count in blogs?
Junior year is going to be a huge year for me. I have always looked at past juniors, and thought, this is going to be my funniest year. Now I've finally made it, and it BETTER be fun. That's my only expectation. It’s bound a crazy year because of HSPA’s, SAT’s, and all the college stuff. However, crazy has a double meaning. It’ll also be filled with homecoming, football games, and PROM! It seemed like just yesterday when we were naive, little freshmen just starting high school. Now, we are grown-up, and getting ready to fill out college applications! Other than being crazy, this year will probably be stressful given the amount of AP classes I am taking, and the three life-changing events listed above. However, it’ll be less stressful knowing that all my peers are going through the same thing as I am.
From AP Lang, I am expecting to be stretched a bit, especially in my writing skills. Especially given that it is the fifth day of school, and we are already writing. I also think that AP Lang will definitely help me in college since we will be expected to write a lot of papers for our many courses. The super bonus is that this class will even assist me on the SAT’s. It’s great that we are able to do so much SAT vocabulary because I really need to boost my Critical Reading score. In this way, my parents AND me will be happy. They’ll have their drastically important SAT score of 1400, and I’ll get my trip to Thailand after high school, go to the Washington Inauguration trip, and, most importantly, get to have a life next summer. A life! What more could I ask for? Thus, this SAT vocabulary every week absolutely thrills me.
I really don’t feel any fear and angst towards this coming year. I feel as though it will be the same as every other year, coming and going quickly, without too much difficulty. I do think that AP Calculus will be…tough…to say the least! (Everyone who is taking it knows what I’m talking about!) Other than that though, I think this year won’t stress me more than usual.
To ask a question like, “Are you where you want to be?”, is definitely something that will cause intensive thought. I’ll start with the fact that I am not easily satisfied with me, others, and life in general. I don’t believe that any time soon, I’ll be exactly where I want to be, or exactly who I want to be. All I can do is try and get as damn close as I can. Academically, I want to be in the top 20’s, at least, because then I can somewhat measure up to my sister’s impressive beeline she has left for me to follow. Socially speaking, I am pretty happy with life. No complaints. Although, I do come off as a bit…different. I don’t mind, and I love who I am. It’s what sets me apart, and makes me ME! (Plus, being Asian is a total bonus!!! Asian and crazy?!?! What a combination! =]) Now, my physical traits. I know I’m not drop-dead gorgeous, but I’m totally secure and happy with my physical features. However, I do wish I was more in shape, but that’s nothing a few crunches can’t cure! Oh, and I also wish that I didn’t become so completely white in the winter and spring! If I did not become like that, then I wouldn’t have these incredibly noticeable tan lines when I come back to school. I seriously feel like an ape because my sneaker-tan lines from tennis! (Watch, now everyone will look for them tomorrow.)
Now, since it seems to be a latest trend, I’ll end with an amazing quote that has absolutely nothing to do with this blog.
“A couple of hundred years ago, Benjamin Franklin shared with the world the secret of his success. Never leave that till tomorrow, he said, which you can do today. This is the man who discovered electricity. You think more people would listen to what he had to say. I don't know why we put things off, but if I had to guess, I'd have to say it has a lot to do with fear. Fear of failure, fear of rejection, sometimes the fear is just of making a decision, because what if you're wrong? What if you're making a mistake you can't undo? The early bird catches the worm. A stitch in time saves nine. He who hesitates is lost. We can't pretend we hadn't been told. We've all heard the proverbs, heard the philosophers, heard our grandparents warning us about wasted time, heard the damn poets urging us to seize the day. Still sometimes we have to see for ourselves. We have to make our own mistakes. We have to learn our own lessons. We have to sweep today's possibility under tomorrow's rug until we can't anymore. Until we finally understand for ourselves what Benjamin Franklin really meant. That knowing is better than wondering, that waking is better than sleeping, and even the biggest failure, even the worst, beat the hell out of never trying.”
-Grey’s Anatomy
Toni, I love the fact that you mentioned one of Mr. Matlack's life stories! No one can deny that they are inspiring.
As for my comment on someone else’s blog, I chose Ivan D. (At random). I agree with Ivan’s comments about the whole “stone in the distance” thing. What happened has happened, and it’s in the past. There’s nothing that anyone can do to change the past, just focus on the present and try to make the best of it- but don’t try too hard! However, I don’t exactly agree with the whole “don’t give a damn thing”, but hey- it’s your life and your blog for that matter. PS, I’m jealous! Running every morning sounds so refreshing but I’m way too lazy to get up at four to do it! PPS, your joke was reasonably funny…nice.
Megan that Grey's Anatomy quote was in a word amazing, and anything can apply. Meredith Grey always fits in. As for you thinking your different, I'm pretty sure the 'differentness' is one of things that makes you so fun to be around. Different really is never bad.
To Miss Toni Maltese:
"Gradually increasing my class rank has been difficult. I wish my parents motivated me and compelled me to do well."
Toni, you are so smart. However, I have to strongly disagree with this statement. You don't need your parents to motivate you. You need to motivate you. You have to want this so bad, that you are willing to do anything and everything in your power to achieve success. I know that I'm not perfect, but I'm telling you before you welcome something that you don't know about. Trust me girl, I know all about the other side. Parents on your back 24/7, pressuring you to beat perfection, to be number one. It's ridiculous. Soon, the pressure will become so much that you lose sight of what YOU want. You become a total zombie that does exactly what you know will please your parents, and keep them off your case. It becomes quite tiresome, and frankly, not worthwhile. Obviously I am talking from personal experience, because if I didn't have the inside scoop, I wouldn't even be mentioning this. So yeah, be happy with the extensive freedom which you've been given. Treasure it. All you have to do if you want to become more successful academically is to push yourself. Not for anyone else, but you. =)
In response to Megan S,
I love how you see yorself and your outlook on the world. Having the parents you do ;), I'm really surprsied on how you turned out, but its great. i dont think anyone would want Megan any other way. Keep on doing what youre doing<3
P.S. Don't worry about your sock tan, i have them too!
Hey guys, sorry I am a little late on the 'comment others part', but it seems like everyone is being cheerful and helping eachother, it's so CUTEE! Anyway I would like to comment on a few people...
FIRST- Matt W. you quoted harry potter which is always a A+ in my mind and it makes me feel good to know that you trust your friends that much (hope im one:))
Hilface-What you say is always deep, but I like the comment you made about Eva's post and I agree that a great way to look at life is by judging your success on enjoyment and happiness. That's whats up!:)
Molly- Just so you know, I will be crying in a fetal postion with you soon enough! Just let me know and we will set the date. School can be ridicuously stressful and time consuming, but from what I hear, it's all going to pay off.
DEV!- True story with the soccer team. Although some people can get on our nerves and we may argue on the field, we are THE closest family at Oakcrest and it's great to know that you can turn to all of those people for help with anything. High school becomes enjoyable and worthwhile when you know there are people who will always stick by your side.
These blogs are amazing! I love this year. Already, we all have learned so much about each other.
Ivan:
"We have eyes for a reason. We need to use them to pay attention to the the people and objectives in front of us. We'll lose our way if we spend our time staring at every stone we see standing in the distance."
I completely agree with this. Many times we all drift away, meandering off the main road to success. It's great when their are classmates that help you recover from being enticed.
Brendan:
"To answer the final questions without any real segue, I am unhappy with all three qualities listed. Academically, I'm sub-par. I'm socially incompetent, scarcely able to speak to people I don't know. And physically, I'm just rather weak and unhealthy. I suppose I can attribute these attributes to a lazy nature. Still, with a new year comes a new set of chances. Hopefully I'll be able to get off my bum and grab one this year."
I love your outlook. Every year does bring forth a new set of chances to change old habits or create new ones. Brendan your writing is amazing and the description of how you illustrated your feeling is something I could never do. You put yourself "out there" with your humor and phrases. I love that about you. I don't think you should feel that your socially incompetent. Most can't speak to strangers in a comfortable manner. Everyone gets lazy. These are the years with not many burdens or responsibilities. We should take advantage of that more.
Molly:
"AP Chemistry will be one class that I will never know what to expect, but seeing Mr. Matlack’s beard everyday will make it bearable."
"If we have that “I suck” attitude, there is no way that we are going to be able to make it through these demanding courses. "
I agree to that! Mr. Matlack is amazing and brings his life lessons into chemistry lessons. I agree that optimism goes a long way toward success. No one should be that extremely critical of themselves.
molly. toni. matlack. =)
Jon--
"the end of my dilly-dallying around thinking the world can just wait for me."
I love this statement because its so true for so many people, and becuase you said "dilly-dallying".
=P
Devon, first all I'd like to say you're defintely not a nerd and if you are, then so am I becuase I've done the same thing almost every night. But it is really cool to see how others feel about the things that everyone fears the most, or doesn't becuase they are cool with anything.
Other comments
In response to Tamari, I denfinetely agree. I need to find some new hobbies.
In repsonse to Brendan
Ah, I had almost forgotten about the most "lively" of the AP bunch. How foolish of me! I agree with you on the its going to be hard to find love with your defintion of love however, remember, "there are many fish in the sea" and no that doesn't mean you'll marry a fish mr. litteral. It just means I'm sure there's someone out there, no, not in space, who will find your brand of comic relief quite pleasing and refreshing. I can't wait to hear more Armstrong words of wisdom which I'm positive will innevibtablly come.
In response to Janiru
Once again, you amaze me with calmmindedness about everything. It is defntiely an awesome quality to have and I, to be truthfull, evey you for it. I really wish we could all just forget about grades and GPAs and just learn becuase we want to evolve as a person. I think, like you said, that is the best reason for taking an AP class and any class for that matter.
To Maegan R
I must apologize for earlier. My actions were extreme and I never meant to get you in trouble. I hope you forgive me, as the humble servant you've turned me into :) I also want to say you blog is amazingly well written and everytime I read something you write I am transported somewhere new with images flashing before my eyes. You are truely an excellent writer and I wanted you to know that. I sure I'll get chastised for that comment being too something or other somehow :) Just kdding.
Anyway, good luck everyone and Bunje I'm really looking forward to this year and can't wait for my journey of self-discovery to begin.
For now, Peace Out
Megan S:
"I don’t mind, and I love who I am. It’s what sets me apart, and makes me ME! (Plus, being Asian is a total bonus!!! Asian and crazy?!?! What a combination! =])"
Response to your comment:
You are completely right. Hearing stories about your parents every year since we were younger has made me appreciate my life, but you have two parents that encourage you to be the best person that you can be. They force you to have a limited social life by encouraging you to study, work at the family business, and get involved with sports. They do that out of love for your success as a person. They teach you life lesson with managing time, saving money, and prioritizing. Lack of family support creates difficulty in confidence, which inevitably confidence compliments motivation, but then again its all the more power to drive you either way.
Response to blog:
Growing up with you and your friendship has taught me a lot. You never follow a certain group. Your a part of every group and friendly and outgoing towards everyone. I've always admired that about you. You open up yourself to everyone. You are a little crazy. Just kidding! Your going to be the one that keeps me sane in Latin. Oh man!
P.S. my picture is the atom smasher that may eventually end life on Earth as we know it. Isn;t that just peachy?
Alright let's break it down. First off, I don't think junior year will be that daunting. Challenging, perhaps. But am I scared? No. Basically, my philosophy on this matter is that the stress comes from looking ahead. Some people, you know who you are, will think about the future and see everything you have to do. It's overwhelming to most people, and rightly so. But for me, none of this. I expose myself to the chances of the future for only a moment, and pick and choose the chance I wish to take. Then I focus on that one chance until it has either failed utterly or succeeded beautifully. These bursts of productivity, interrupted by periods of carefree laziness, are how I've managed my life so far, and judging by the fact that I'm in three AP classes without a single waiver, I'd say it turned out pretty well so far.
But the policy of Hakuna Matata, which has served me well so far, it seems will not serve me well so far. I laugh at the notion of Junior year as the most difficult, but I do see it as being the least fun. While I don't think it will take any special talent or mind-boggling work. I think all it will take is time. Where before, I may have had 3 or 4 hours after school for fun, now I may have one or two on a lot of days. Then, before a big project, I will, as I have done before, I will spend an entire day in my room doing that and nothing else.
This I've all done before, and I will do it again, I have do doubt. But the scale will most likely increase. I will lose hours I normally set aside for enjoyment. My biggest fear is in this. I will lose the fun, the excitement, the overall silliness and oddity that makes me who I am. I view maturity as a gradual rounding of the hard edges that make up our personality. We dull the edges because as we grow, we become more careful of who we prod with them. I have kept my edges sharp, and set myself apart. I keep on having fun, by my definition and no one else's, no matter who it may offend. My biggest worry is that I will have to dull those edges this year. Cutting off that side of my personality would be like cutting off a limb. But, I fear it may become a necessary sacrifice.
This year stretches on, like a dark hall, and I left my torch at home. But, grues, nightmares, mutated seal clubbers, whatever may await me in the darkness, I must embrace it, for that is the only way to overcome the trials that await this year.
Honestly I never thought that this year would come. Ever since all of us were little kids we’ve always dreamed about what high school would be like. And now that were in it, or at least have official ‘upperclassmen’ status in it, it feels like were leaving. Junior year to me is like our last year of high school. It’s the year that colleges look at, so automatically we as AP students strive to do our best. And above this, it’s our last year of high school that we actually have to strive to do our best, since senior year is infamous for being the ‘slack off’ year considering colleges don’t put much insight towards it. Whether these rumors are true or not, I dedicate my junior year to putting 110% into all of my work, and I would advise others to do the same. It’s not that junior year is much harder than any of the other years, but this is when it gets serious. Before we break off and go to college, people should be putting their best work forward in order to get into these good schools and courses. With each year brings new expectations and moods towards school. Not particularly whether you’re a freshman, sophomore, or junior, but growing up in life in general always allows us new frames of mind as we mature. As far as expectations go, I’m a firm believer in getting back what you put into a situation. So instead of expecting good relationships, grades, and knowledge, I will strive to strengthen my relationships, work for my grades, and always keep an open mind. What I’ve learned last year among other things in Mr. Costal’s class was that you can actually learn things without having to go by repetition and such approaches. The flowing and sharing of ideas about our world and cultures, can teach us so much more than we could ever learn superficially. In this year’s AP Lang class, I want to learn the depth and provocative meanings in writings. Personally I want to be able to recognize these implications and work off of them. I wouldn’t say I have fear about this class, but rather anxiousness in me where I’m eager to tackle whatever is set before me. As far as 11th grade goes, so far I’m definitely in range of where I want to be socially, physically, and academically. I know where I need to be physically in soccer, grade wise in my classes, and also scoring-wise for the SAT’s. It’s going to be a tough journey to go through, but confidently determined to get there, all I now have to focus in on is my friends, family, and happiness. After all we can’t forget that junior year is the year that we get to drive and also officially go to prom! My parents have always said that I must lead the lifestyle I want to live now in order to live it later in life. So this year I will for sure be rid of my bad habits of procrastination, and work to put myself in a good position for my future.
For my comment, I would first like to say that I agree with Ivan 210%. Grades-wise, I may do terribly this year, but it matters not. There are only two important things, and those are helping others and learning for its own sake. As usual, Ivan speaks quietly, but when he does it's dead on.
Ok, continuation from before.
Actually, I have no idea what I wrote about before, so this is a restart. Plus, now I'm jammin to some Gang Starr so my style oughta increase in quality ten fold.
Junior year looks to me like I'll be seeing some low blows on my first report card. Mainly I'm looking at Calculus. I honestly don't have time for math homework, so I'm just gonna have to hope I can pass the class. If not, there's always next year, right?
Honestly, AP Lang feels like a haven. It's anything but scary. It gives me something to look forward to at the end of my day. That's not to say I didn't get off easy with the rest of my schedule. I landed good teachers like Cervi and Seaman (I'd say Bunje, but that was a given). I even managed to get my mom for French III.
Basically, I'm trying to say my life is easy. Sure there's tons of homework from AP's and CP's alike, but that's cool with me. At least I don't have to deal with a hurricane flooding out my house, right? So I really don't have any fears about Bunje's class. Pass or fail, I'm down with the results.
I'm really sorry, but school just bores people to death. Since your question was pretty broad, I'm going to just assume it includes extra-curricular activities as well. I almost quit soccer this year. Playing JV just isn't really part of my high school plans. On top of that, there are about 16 seniors with guaranteed varsity spots. That doesn't leave much room for anyone else. Coach Seaman needs to thinks about the future. What's going to happen when we lose all those seniors next year? Think about it.
My parents are pretty amazing, I must admit. I got raised the right way. Still, I do have a pretty big problem with hating all the brats that grew up with everything getting handed to them. Then there are kids that just need to man up and do their part. If you don't want to help recycle, at least keep yourself healthy. Is it really all that difficult?
To me, there are 3 areas of health: fitness, hydration, and sleep. I always got the first two covered, those are easy. Sleep is just impossible, though. As an active high school student, I need about ten or eleven hours of sleep every night. That means my bed time was and hour and ten minutes ago. Lately, I've been thinking about ignoring all my homework and just getting the stuff done that I can in school.
[Random]I just thought of my fear. This one's huge. It's the only thing that keeps me in check. I want to be a psychiatrist. That requires a ton of college, and some interning at a hospital. College could cost me 200 grand. I need scholarships badly.
Right now my grades need improvement, but I just don't have the drive to do it. Hopefully I won't fall too far behind. Socially, I'm doing pretty terrible as always. Why is that? Well, I don't have time to worry about that stuff. But it's cool. I'm just taking what comes to me.
In response to J Masta Phunk 4000's comment: (is that how it goes, Jani?)
"I have that carnage for changing my perspective on the world." I only wish I knew how you could have a bunch of dead bodies that want to change their outlook on life. I'm just gonna guess you mispoke? Otherwise.......I'm scared.
Anyway, I like your confidence. I can definately hear you saying those exact words to me in some pointless argument where we're both saying the exact same thing but don't realize it. I can see it now....
Jani: My perception of intelligence is a whole lot different than the “intelligence” a piece of paper dictates. A smart person is a critical thinker, not a memorizer. A smart person concerns themselves with others, and isn’t infatuated by useless garbage.
Jon: That's totally off-target. Intelligence is a measure of understanding. Understand the world, your peers, and yourself, and then I just might call you a smart cat. Otherwise, it's the guillotine.
Then you'd disagree and we'd go on for hours. Ahh.......good times.
Hey Hey Woah Woah Hey. Junior year is the toughest, most insurmountably important, fate-deciding year of high school? Well golly gee I wouldn't have guessed that it mattered so much after having the fact shoved down my throat by this schools administration year after year, just as an overbearing parent does to their 6-year old as he refuses to eat his asparagus. In all seriousness though I do recognize this fact and why the administration acts the way they do. But to me I could care less about junior year; it might as well be freshman year all over again. How about we break this down, and by that I mean why junior year matters so much. Junior year comes down to three things: the HSPA, SAT’s and College acceptances. And since the average student passes HSPA’s off as an educational joke we can pretty much ignore that aspect of the year. SAT’s and College acceptances go hand in hand. You do well in your classes; you will then do well on SAT’s, which in turn will look good on college resumes thus getting you into the school of your choice. And for most people that’s satisfying enough, going to a good school, getting good grades and what not. But for me you might as well write up the entire scholastic dream as a load of shenanigans. First of all we do not come to school to learn. We come to receive our ‘education” which consists of the regurgitation of information and facts so that we may pass tests distributed by the same government who decides our curriculum. We are given letters and numbers that decide our worth in society based strictly off of how well we memorize pointless facts and “learn”. The rules and regulations of these learning environments beat any trace of individuality out of each child and force them into the cookie cutter shapes that will best benefit society. But hey if you’re lucky you might be so good at memorizing facts that you can attend college for special studies such as engineering and surgery where you will be rewarded will unimaginable debt for all your hard work. But with all my talk I know I’m still susceptible to the pressures of the scholastic world. One of my big fears this year is how I will balance all of my AP classes along with three sports. And for me it’s not enough just to pass the classes and participate in sports because I’m what a lot of people might call a competitive jerk. You know the guy who wins at all costs and crushes people in the process. So I need to win all my cross-country, track and swimming races and also get MVP in every sport, I don’t expect any less of myself. I also need to keep my grades in line because I’m aiming for some super sweet SAT scores to land a spot in JHU for pre med studies. Before you call me a hypocrite for falling prey to grades and educational pressure, I will assure you I am not because I only want to be a doctor so I can help victims who lack health care across the globe. Well isn’t that a perfect hallmark card answer? We should stick that one right up on granny’s refrigerator! I hope you agree with me that my answer was not nearly as compelling as the other points in my bog. But hey what do I know? Don’t let my tirade stop you from becoming another mindless drone in the system. So that’s my opinion on junior year, it means nothing if your sole purpose is getting a numerical grade on your educational value, but if you are pursuing knowledge and success in your sports then this year is important so just make something of it without succumbing to the letter grade mentality that the rest of this country has. Remember, what would Thoreau do?
In response to Eva B’s comment:
Eva you are the most incredible person I have met so far in my life. From the day I first met you, your eccentric personality and manner always stood out to me. But years of erosion by the torrential flow of pier pressure has left your edges as sharp and defined as they have always been. What inspired me to write about your blog was the fact that it delineated the exact points I wish to exemplify in my high school career. You acknowledge the importance of this year, but only in regards to how others hold it in such high esteem. And just as you have done with the rest of your life you ignored junior years attempts to change your motives for going to school and your ideals of what life should be about. You were brave enough to fight against popular passion and declare happiness as something of greater magnitude then success in school or college and other trivial sundries. You seem wholeheartedly committed to what your beliefs are, and even though I talk a big game about home much I despise the scholastic system I still find myself typing my posterior off on Wednesday night’s trying to finish all my homework before 11:45. Your blog was a testimony to your bravery, which I find to be completely amazing. I hope you never budge an inch to the pressures of society.
-Matt Capone
For my comment, I would first like to say that I agree with Ivan 210%. Grades-wise, I may do terribly this year, but it matters not. There are only two important things, and those are helping others and learning for its own sake. As usual, Ivan speaks quietly, but when he does it's dead on.
Thank you Dan. I really can't say much about your blog, seeing as I agree with it.
Also, I'd like to clarify that when I said I "established my image", I meant that despite how apathetic about things such as grades I sounded in the previous two paragraphs, I actually cared about some things.
and I'm off...oh and about that hadron collider...
It has already been activated. Nothing happened. Then again, they didn't make anything collide yet. So,keep worrying.
To Toni: Wow, it was really nice of you to say that. Even if you have trouble with descriptions, you managed to be very insightful, which can count for a lot more.
I suppose I should comment on some other pieces.
To Ivan: Well, despite his blatant heartlessness towards Ethiopia, I think everyone knows you're a good person. May this year bestow many a rainbow and lollipop upon you.
I have heard many good things about Ethiopian food, though.
To Megan S: I'll admit it, I watched Grey's Anatomy for about two seasons. I was more in it for the medical side of the drama, (The only television show I watch at the moment is house) but I can't deny that it was an all-around well written show, especially the monologue bookends.
It's also great to see someone so self-assured, without being arrogant. I do think you overestimate your own insanity, though. As do we all. That's the part of myself I'm working to change. I'm just not random enough...
To Matty W's response: Come on, now. Do you really remember me making lame jokes like the ones you were blocking off? That hurts. To be honest, though, I think you're looking at what I'm saying the wrong way. While I would like to find a person that acts as oddly as I do, you wouldn't believe just how tiring it is. I suppose while I speak in exaggerations quite often, not everyone is quite able to whittle them down to the basic truths I hide inside them. And to put your hadron fear at ease:
Dr. Arkani-Hamed said concerning worries about the death of the Earth or universe, “Neither has any merit.” He pointed out that because of the dice-throwing nature of quantum physics, there was some probability of almost anything happening. There is some minuscule probability, he said, “the Large Hadron Collider might make dragons that might eat us up.”
So there you have it. The hadron collider is going to make dragons which will eat us all. Don't you feel relieved?
And to dan: I suppose great minds will always think alike. Losing my chances to have fun is always my biggest fear. I don't see any point to a life not enjoyed.
As for your edge metaphor, I certainly understand that. If that were the case, I'd probably look like a steel koosh ball from a distance.
There are some days when I feel like I'm what you would get if you crossed dan, eva, and something else. I'm not sure exactly what. Needless to say, it has a rather sick mind.
Junior year will be my hardest year of high school- unless senior year catches me seriously off guard- but not for the typical reasons. This is my only Advanced Placement class, although I think Honors Pre-Calc and Physics will probably be challenging as well, mostly because math and science have never been my forte. However, what will complicate this year especially are two things that have always been more minor obstacles for me: Firstly, as I continue to pursue my high school education, I am also avidly pursuing my education in the arts. Secondly, the Oak has drastically changed for me over the summer, and it’s not a change I’m comfortable with or particularly like, which has been affecting my performance thus far.
I’ve always been a busy person, but this year, I’m reaching for extremes. After high school I plan to get my BA in Dance Education, and to ensure that I am as prepared for that as possible, I have been both dancing and working as a teacher’s aide at a dance studio nearby for years. This year though presents a special challenge. I was asked by the studio owner to teach my own class this year (regularly supervised, of course, but a class that I run and choreograph for), and I’m joining Company. My studio’s Company essentially is a core dance-for-performance education which includes a jazz class, a ballet class, a pointe class, and a tap class. In addition to those I’m taking clogging and hip hop, as well as teaching modern. This will pretty much take up my afternoons Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. As if that weren’t enough, I’m also planning on continuing my participation in OHS’s drama productions, despite their choice of musical this year. All of this means I’m really going to need to prioritize well if I want to succeed in my endeavors this year, and because prioritization has never been my strongest trait, I’m nervous to say the least.
As for the changes in Oakcrest, I’m finding it to be a much less friendly environment than it was last year, by my perception anyway. I’m not quite where I want to be this year, socially, because most of my friends are gone away to college, which is making this school a much less pleasant environment. Physically I’m pretty much where I want to be, with the exception of magically transforming into a beautiful, graceful and fit young woman, which is still on my to-do list. Mentally, I’m a “little bit broken” as Lauren Elkins would say, still adjusting to the sleep schedule, the time management, the insanity and the loneliness of being back in school. But as I adjust, I know I will become more comfortable and stress less about life in general. Junior year isn’t so big and bad: It’ll take a lot more than an AP test and the SAT’s to make this the “year to end all years”, as so many former upperclassmen have referred to it as.
I’d also like to comment on Eva’s post. I agree with most of what she said, especially the comment on disliking math tests. But on one point, I disagree entirely. I am very ready for college. I cannot wait to get out of this house and out of these halls, to continue my education the way I choose to (goodbye math!), to travel and to enhance who I am and what I know. I am looking forward to that adventure in a big way, and am anxious to turn to the next page in my life.
12th period has until 11:45.
Brendan, it really comforts me to know that we won't be sucked into an oblivion, no, instead we'll be eatten alive by dragons. Yeah!! Anyway, sorry if I really hurt your feelings:( I didn't mean to and if you're being sarcastic again, well, stop!!!! It makes it really hard to tell what you mean, especially since its just words on a page here and I can't see if you're grinning or not. Anyway, your perspective is always refreshing and I think you give yourself enough credit sometimes. While you may not always be conventionally smart, grades and tests and the such, you are creativelly smart, which is an awesome talent to have and it WILL take YOU far.
Anyway Good luck to anyone who still has to do their blog. You peoples have approximately 1 hour left!
Have Fun :)
-Matt W
that's nice brendan. thanks for rubbing it in ;'(that's me sticking my tongue out, so there) No hard feelings though.
First of all, i had no idea how many posts this blog would have and i feel like a real jerkface for not posting mine earlier! But what can I say, Procrastination is my best friend<3 I'm very uncomfortable in this chair that is way too big for me and i am listening to Rihanna on repeat!
So for those of you who don't know, I went to England over the summer for 2 1/2 weeks, and literally had 5 days to get ready for school when i got home. (So don't make fun of me if i'm wearing old clothes! I never anticipated how hard it would be to juggle work and school.) Though I wish I could say it was the best 2 1/2 weeks of my summer, it was very much so the opposite. It rained, A LOT, and was cold all day everyday.
My days there consisted of playing tennis with plastic kiddie rackets(racquets?) and a plastic neon yellow ball that the dogs constantly stole from the game, and glaring into each passing car looking for the previous Prime Minister (TONY BLAIR!) who recently bought this mansion type of house down the single road of the town i stayed in. No, i never met him despite my many jogs down to 'the big house' as they call it there. Other than that i worked on the homework and read the biography on Ann Robinson. (The host from 'The Weakest Link') Yeah, I WAS BORED!
The point I am trying to reach is that I had many many hours to myself because the computer time was limited to an hour and when i was on at 4pm everyone was still sleeping at 11am! Another big portion of my time was spent sneaking around the house at midnight to talk to people on the computer! In my alone time I literally sat on the uncomfortable futon in the conservatory (the only warm area in all of England) and thought. I thought about life, more than i ever have. So deeply that it frightened me and made me cry.
A few things that i realized apparently show signs of maturity, according to my father. My first two years of high school were a joke. I didn't try, nor did i want to. My entire freshman year consisted of cheating off of the kid next to me. Like Erik said, Freshman year is the transition period. But I never grew into the transition. All my life I was warned for the grade above because it would be 'sooo much harder', but it never was. I was always at the top of my class and everything was extremely easy for me. When I came to Oak I figured it would be the same. Boy, was I wrong.
So my entire freshman year was a waste of life. And lets not even talk about my sophomore year. I took the easiest classes and I should have passed them all with flying colors, but no, i decided to be too cool to care. I didn't do everything that i should have, and i regret it all heavily now. I can not believe that i wasted my life. I can never go back, I can never fix the mistakes I made. I really fucked up and I won't forgive myself for it.
This year, I am turning to a new page and writing and striving and loving every moment. I won't let myself go back to where I was. I want to brag about my class rank with everyone. I want to sit with my friends in a little study circle. I want the little neon colored flash cards with a million definitions paired words i'll never remember. This year NEEDS to be different from anything i've ever done. So, for me, this year will be the toughest and most demanding year of high school. This year needs to boost my confidence because i feel like a failure. You'll never see this side of me in person though because socially, i have an image to uphold. Seriously, when have you ever seen me down? Never, I don't like to be upset, so i wont show it. I am scared of so much, but with reassurance from so many people I realized that i just have to do well or i will disappoint them all, and most importantly myself.
Sorry if i sound like an emo kid, but i suppose this is the place for emotion!
I've come into this year expecting a lot out of myself. I'm taking 5 AP classes and the workload is surely going to be like nothing I've ever experienced. This year will be my hardest year of school yet, as it should be. Having said that, I know I can handle the pressure. I've overcome greater obstacles, like doing all of my summer work in four days, minus my AP language homework which I finished in June.
The Junior year of high school has always rested on an ornate pedestal wearing red satin robes. It lies on its side with one arm propping up its head as the SAT’s drop grapes into its mouth and my AP classes massage its feet. My class rank fans it with a reed while crew stands at its side asking, “Can I help you, sire?” every fifteen seconds. I have always looked up at this monarchal creature in awe as it stared back at me with a nonchalant glare. As each year passed the pedestal shrank and I got closer to meeting this eminent creature. Now I stand eye level with this monster of a year nervous and star struck. I reach out to shake its hand, not knowing whether or not it will greet me with open arms, or bite off my hand.
Greek analogies aside, I never expected my junior year would come so soon. I want to attend an Ivy League college, and I know this is the year that can make that goal attainable. The only problem is my state of mind. I look at the SAT’s, AP tests, class rank, GPA and sports as obstacles I must overcome. If I look at these things as problems, I will never reach my goal. What I have to do is realize they are not problems, but solutions to my ultimate goal of attending an Ivy league. I have to embrace them, and utilize them as tools that will show colleges I have what it takes. I believe this class will help me in what is my weakest subject. I hope this class will turn my poor SAT verbal scores around, but also become a better writer in general.
However, all this talk about goals and tools is just a bunch of hooplah if I don’t have the capacity to do it. I need to stay motivated, focused, and most importantly awake if I’m going to do this. I’ve met my junior year, now it’s up to me. I can either come out a champion, or with a bleeding stump where my hand used to be.
In response to Eva:
I would like so much to believe that all that matters is what you take from a class, but that philosophy doesn’t stand up to the brutal college acceptance moderators. I admire you for staying true to yourself and no one else for I cannot say the same about myself. I want to learn but I also want to get into a good college. So I have a question for you: is the grass really greener on the other side?
In response to Molly:
The first time I read this I read it as follows “but seeing Mr. Matlack’s beard everyday will make it beardable.”
Bless you for taking AP Chem. I could not do it. As for your breakdown, I think that you’ll do really well.
In response to Harleen:
Everyone has been telling me to drop AP too, and I have been weighing the pros and the cons in my head as well. I can only hope for both of our sakes that the claims are true about SAT scores. Good luck on the coming year.
The dreaded junior year of high school has finally come, and along with it all the horrible, frightening rumors. Up until about September 1 I was almost positive that all the malarkey and scare tactics of junior year were just like the words of previous years teachers. For instance, every year of school teachers have been saying "you can't do things like this next year!" Or the famous "Next year, the material will be twice as hard and taught at twice the pace, "line always rang in my ears as the final bell was sounding for the year. Then next year would roll around and the same behaviors would be accepted, and nothing would change except the students got older and more mature. This year however is incredibly different. The work itself seems like it will be some of the least challenging material I've ever faced, just presented with a workload that makes it almost impossible to succeed. The year isn't hard, but keeping up with all the pointless work to refine my skills is the hard part. It does appear to be the most important year though due to the immense amount of work that needs to be done, but this is only because it seems that when this year is over the student's skills should be almost perfectly tuned to perfection. After junior year's conclusion, it seems life becomes more of a real world situation instead of the constant drilling of concepts school has seemed before. From what the seniors have shown, even with a massive amount of AP classes, senior year is a relaxing year entry period for the world. So in essence, junior year to me is the point where schooling cracks down as its final year of building for the real world, which makes it incredibly hard.
Furthermore, junior year should be the year where most of my knowledge is tested in a way that has never been tested before. The progression of the year should shape my intellect into a force to be reckoned with. If high school was an entire person's life story, junior year would be the segment where the person enters the military and becomes a lean-mean-fighting-machine. My expectations of junior year are closely related to that joining the military point of a person's life, considering it's suppose to be hard and challenging and make a person second guess their own abilities. In the long run, I expect to leave junior year to be the toughest, but most rewarding, year of my high school career.
Additionally, the AP Language course is one of the courses that should actually help me within my life, which is opposite all the other pointless knowledge that I'm learning during my junior year. When the sad and heart wrenching time to say goodbye to AP Lang comes around I'm expecting to have an increased vocabulary and my SAT scores nearing the perfect realm. Also, I tend to look at the English teachers with a blank stare every time they mention a author or a piece of literature that is read by many people, and by the time the year is over I'm hoping AP Lang will help me overcome this problem of ignorance.
Continually, the only thing that actually scares me, a man who rarely scares easy if I do say so myself, is the fact that it can be so easy to just not do the work required for class. All of the work honestly seems like it will be incredibly easy, just extremely time consuming. At the age of sixteen nearing seventeen time consuming activities are not number one on the priority list. The prospect of allowing myself to sit back and just let my grades and future go down the drain due to a simple case of laziness, is an image of death-inducing terror. It can happen so quickly, and it starts with the first time I allow it to happen. After the first time, the second, third, and fourth times giving into what my mother calls "the lazies" don't seem so bad. This is the only true thing that I fear will happen in my junior year, or within the AP Lang class.
On further note, I feel that laziness has caused me to not be where I want to be academically. If I put a honest effort into all my work, instead of doing it to the half of my potential or last minute, I could be on a much higher academic plane.Granted, being number 11 in a class of four-hundred- and some large number under another hundred is incredible, but it's just not good enough for me. Number one is good enough because then you can say that your best effort is better than everyone else's, which gives me a sense of accomplishment.
On a much more pleasant note, I am happy where I am socially. I have good friends that I can depend on, and a family that is within the school. The football team is a big part of my life socially and my position in it makes my social life amazing. Almost nothing could be better within my social life.
Now, being happy physically with myself is another story. There is never a way for me to be physically satisfied because I can always run faster, be bigger, look better, be stronger, and be more athletic. A human body is an amazing thing, and until I find the physical limit where it is impossible to get better in that area I won't be satisfied. That is almost a given that will never change.
In the end, this year will be another difficult yet rewarding piece on the journey of life that will hopefully shape me for the better in the long run and make me a much more intelligent and sophisticated individual.
Personally, I think Molly's comment about how although college's are looking at the junior year for sports and academics they are also looking at all the other years, it seems they will look at all four years and judge your value based upon them, is right on point. Maybe not so much in sports, but in academics colleges aren't going to zone in on just what students did junior year. If they did I wasted a lot of time trying in the other two years of high school. And sure, most schools offer the most rigorous class curriculum during junior year, but I don't think it is all that matters. This realization, sort of bogs down the belief that junior year is by far the most important year. It just seems that to most college's junior year is the age where a student is practically emerging as an adult and is facing true workloads.Hopefully, and most practically, colleges look at the way a student worked in freshman and sophomore year along with junior year to determine the work ethics of that student. But, it does make sense for them to place a heavy emphasis on junior year, considering junior year is the closest representation of how they work now. The now situation is also a factor in college acceptances, which is because no college wants a student who worked hard for two years then decided to slack off and waste a year of education. In essence, Molly had a good point in saying that although junior year has a heavy emphasis placed upon it, it isn't the only determining factor. (Good job Molly)
MIKEE:
"I’ve met my junior year, now it’s up to me. I can either come out a champion, or with a bleeding stump where my hand used to be."
With that atitude, you will definitely come out as a champion! I have total faith in you and your red robes. =)
In response to Nanfara's comment:
"I've overcome greater obstacles, like doing all of my summer work in four days, minus my AP language homework which I finished in June."
That's amazing! I thought June was before August 30th, but the calendar pulled a fast one on me. Seriously, though that is amazing 5 AP classes and summer work done in four days. You can do some incredible things with that mindset.
FINALLY, as juniors we are finished climbing up high schools slimy back, and have begun sliding down into mounds of homework and what seems to be an unobtainable AP tests. Of course junior year appears to be the toughest and most challenging of them all; that’s what we have been told since we naively shuffled into the Oak on our first days as high school students. All students expecting to get a scholarship need to be at the peak of their academic game, so all of the big time colleges remember their name. You need straight A’s, and if you don’t get them, you can forget about your Princeton daydreams. On the contrary, what I have experienced so far hasn’t been so intimidating. (Well, most of it.) Plus, if you look at the bright side, the fun an excitement is only beginning! As freshman and sophomores, you experience sort of a culture shock, from all of the different people. (Especially if you were from a smaller middle school…aka mullicans =])
In AP Lang, I expect to immensely improve SAT scores, and for that matter ALL of my test scores. Writing is a key tool to success in high school, because practically everything revolves around it. (Except math.) I have to remember that with success, eventually comes failure, and if I set such high standards for myself, I may not reach them, but I must not hold my head low. One of my greatest fears is overreaching and when I fail, giving up. But what is the woes thing about it is that I am not throwing in the towel because I can’t do it, but because I feel so unsatisfied with myself that nothing will ever be good enough.
As a junior, you have discovered where you belong, not in a bad way, but you have found a group of friends that you feel comfortable around. I don’t know who I would be today if I never met some of the mullicans. They don’t immediately judge you by what classes you were in during middle school or where you live, and that’s what sets them apart from all of the other people who I have known since grade school. My friends are my second family, and most of that family is on the soccer team. My feelings about soccer are complicated. I love it. I hate it. I love playing with my team and in games, but I absolutely HATE practice. Not because of the running or the fields or the drills. I hate being separated from all of my friends. It is the worst feeling looking across the field at your friends playing and laughing together while you are being torn up on the inside. I guess what bothers me the most is that I KNOW that I want it more than other people, yet every time I can see my goal in front of me and I fall an inch too short. And when I zone out into this mood, I feel sorry for all of the other people around me, but please don’t be offended; I am just upset with myself.
(WELL that was depressing)haha.
HIL: My biggest problem has always been time management. I always imagined "I'll do that later..." and stressed myself out when "later" finally came around.
- UGH I am the number one procrastinator. I really don’t understand why we even let ourselves procrastinate because usually we feel like crap until we get this work done anyways. But what I’ve learned over this summer as well as this year is that I feel a lot better when I’m on top of things and don’t let myself stress out when ‘later finally comes around.’ I think that over the years of procrastination, were finally seeing the payoff we receive when we don’t wait until last minute. =)
Ivan: We have eyes for a reason. We need to use them to pay attention to the people and objectives in front of us. We'll lose our way if we spend our time staring at every stone we see standing in the distance.
- Ivan I actually think about this entire concept a lot during my day. Like all of us, throughout the day I think about what my friends are doing, what work I need to get done, what I need to say to this person or clear up with another…and then I realize that in all of this contemplation, nothing is getting done because I haven’t dedicated myself to one specific thing but given mere thoughts to each of them. As students, friends, siblings, daughters and so forth we can’t let ourselves get caught up in the daily stress we come across, but simply take action when it comes to these things merely because we know how important these ‘people and objectives’ are in our lives.
Janiru you completely hit the mark when it comes to “intelligence.” I can’t say that I joined this class to get into a certain college, or even make a specific number on my AP Exam. But what really and rarely comes from classes like this one are the concepts and thoughts that move people. I don’t measure a person’s smartness on the classes they take, the way they write, or their test taking skills, but on their ability to understand and move forward with ideas and messages. I’m sure that half of your friends, along with half of my friends could put themselves up to the same challenges we face, if they were put up to it. Obviously knowledge isn’t limited to people to take AP classes, but to people that are willing to understand and grasp this knowledge.
Britt--
I see you play soccer(sometimes) and i definitely have heard my share about it from you. From both, I know how much it means to you, and how much passion you really do have for it. You shouldn't worry though. You are a totally amazing player, and soon those inches short will turn into centimeters and then into millimeters, until finally, you reach your goal. Just keep pushing (literally) your way to the top, and you'll definitely be there. =]
Umm...you're super! <3! megsong
In response to Kelly
I know exactly what you mean, I really don't know what I'm going to major in either. You're right about the stress that comes with this year, but you have the right mindset to handle it and I know you'll be fine.
Since summer began, I’ve had mixed emotions on junior year. For one, I’m beyond excited to be an upperclassman. It’s been great not having to carry soccer equipment or water jugs down to the field. Sitting in the senior cafeteria has been pretty good, and it’s kind of nice to walk through the hallways not feeling intimidated by upperclassman; but it’s also pretty scary being a junior. I mean, let’s face it. We’re almost grown up. In one year, we’ll be planning our eighteenth birthdays. By now most of us, have our permits, and pretty soon, full licenses. As a junior, it’s unsettling that I can no longer fall back on my “Oh well I’m just an underclassman” or “College is years away” excuses. This year begins the real deal that upperclassman academia. It’s frightening, but slacking off now could hurt your future.
Now physically and emotionally, I can tell junior year will be a toughie. My typical day will usually consist of classes from 7:20am to 2:40pm, one or two club meetings from 2:40 to 3:30, and soccer or basketball practice till 5:30. I’ll get off my bus sometime between 6:15pm and 6:30pm. By then I’m exhausted, but I still have to shower, eat dinner, and do homework. When homework’s done, it might be 11:00pm or it might be 1:00am, it depends on the workload. I’ll go straight to bed after that because I have to catch a 6:20am bus to Oakcrest. By Friday, I’m a zombie.
When it comes to sports, which are a large part of my life, it’s strenuous. Players are competing for varsity spots and coaches want playoffs and championships. Coaches want practices more frequently, and practice time extended. Between basketball and soccer, this year I’ll practice up to six days a week. Juniors, I believe, are under the most pressure. If a junior isn’t fighting for a varsity jersey, they’re most likely defending their JV position from underclassmen. Junior year is tough in athletics, this is a make or break year and there’s a lot of pressure for everyone to deliver.
Although we may complain, groan, and occasionally threaten to quit, teammates and classmates alike, I believe we all realize there is a purpose to the madness. No one gets into Harvard by sitting on their butt. It’s a common principle, work hard, play hard. If we make sacrifices now, we’ll reap the rewards later. Most likely in the form of a scholarships and/or acceptance to the college of our choice. My point is, in the end, this will all be worth it. So for now, I suggest we take junior year in stride. We should try to calm down a little and enjoy our new upperclassman status, but we shouldn’t forget the future, which when you think about it, isn’t that far off…
Tamari- I wish I had the confidence you have in junior year. I wish I could relax, let go and just enjoy this year one day at a time. It pretty awesome that you took take this class to focus on being a better writer and not just to impress colleges. I admire that you want to better yourself as a student and I hope you reach your goal. =)
ALL Athletes :
I admire you all so much. I suck at sports and always have. I can not imagine getting up for school at around 5, going through an entire school day, grabbing all of your homework for the night and shoving it into that athletic locker knowing that you won't get around to it until at least 6:30. Sports take up so much time, they wear you out physically and i personally can not do a thing except eat if i'm tired. haha. All of you have to work even more to stay up later into the evening and do that homework. I wish i had the determination and drive that you guys do.
I suppose it's the same as my stupid boss trying to schedule me from 3-10, but i'd rather stand at a register or behind a deli for 8 hours than run my ass off for 2. So, kudos to you athletes, i could not achieve what you all do so well if i tried <3
I understand why junior year is supposedly the “toughest” year, but shouldn’t they all be difficult? It really comes down to how hard students challenge themselves. Colleges look at students’ academics and athletics more intently junior year. I know the reason I am taking all these AP classes and working myself to death in softball is because now is my chance to shine. I am hoping that AP Lang will improve my SAT scores tremendously, along with the help of my other AP classes. That is important to me, but I also want to benefit from the class in other ways. I do not want my junior year to be stressful, but of course it will be to some degree, or else I am not pushing myself hard enough. But to enjoy the class in the process will make my junior year experience much more comforting. I am afraid of what will happen to my grades once I begin sports. When it comes down to homework and sports, I always struggle to find time to manage both. This will be a challenge, but it is my responsibility to be able to handle the stress and exhaustion that I seem to force upon myself. Academically, I am not nearly where I want to be, only because I am never content. It is not my grades that I am worried about, I can live with being labeled “average” by the educational system. Mostly every teacher I’ve had has taught me, what I believe is, nonsense. To live completely happily, people first should desire a better understanding of life. But this knowledge is harder to come by when our minds are being crammed with useless information. I want to be taught how I can appreciate things more, how I can find beauty in anything, how I can truly live. I don’t believe school provides that sort of education at all. Our educational system makes students want to be book smart rather than spiritually. Students think they are smart because they take all the AP classes and have the highest GPA attainable, but most of them can’t even grasp the concept of life, let alone take the time to care. I don’t think I’m some super genius because I have good grades and think I have a good perspective on life (even if it may be pessimistic), but I don’t believe any one really is capable of understanding such a complex subject, only because the nonsense we’ve been taught takes up too much space in our minds. Physically, I can manage. Being healthy or unhealthy isn’t really a serious matter to me anymore, because I already know which category I fall in. Softball and running may keep me physically “in shape”, but who doesn’t want to gain some muscle, lose ten pounds, get “fit”? Just thinking about that gets me stressed enough, so I try not to, because I’ve got other things to worry about. Socially, I don’t feel like I excel in this area as much as others. I’m a shy person, and reserved to a certain extent. It’s hard for me to get to know others because I make it hard for others to get to know me. I’d like to work on that, but it’s a quality that’s been embedded in me. I just feel as though I don’t compare to others on such a communicative level, and the awkwardness that can occur by interacting with others removes me from my “comfort zone”.
In reply to Janiru’s comment:
“It’s times like these that makes me happy to be the person I am. I’m not a slave to the grind, nor am I a part of this "teenage wasteland". I am myself, and am proud of it.
I think Chicago Bears great Mike Ditka put it best;
“Success isn't measured by money or power or social rank. Success is measured by your discipline and inner peace.”
Right on, Iron Mike. So my advice to all of you; calm down, take a deep breath, and realize that you control your own fate. Viel Glück on the journey that is the 11th grade!”
I find that very inspiring. For you to be able to admit your satisfaction with who you are is a bold thing. Most people feel they need to change themselves to “fit into society”, but you’re right, you’re not one of the mindless idiots who ruin themselves by conforming. And it’s true, the way we live our lives is established by the peace we have with ourselves.
I know that the gradebook has closed on this blog, but I only just checked my e-mail.
In responce to the people who commented on me... I'm not sure we're reading the same post. I honestly didn't think I put in anything about bravery, or being true to myself, or rebellion, or any of that. Frankly, re-reading it, the view I express won't get me anywhere. And it's the one I express to anyone who will lisiten every day.
Wow.
I have reread all the posts for the 3rd time ( I read everything 3 times--I will explain it at some point) and I have to say that I am really looking forward to the rest of the year.
With some of the depth and insight that I have witnessed in this electronic format, I fully expect to be engaged in ways I never thought possible this year during class discussions.
There seems to be a general consenus that junior year, though touted by many as a Herculean task, really won't be that big of a deal in the grand scheme of scholastic life. I both agree and disagree there, but I think, like anything else, it will be what you make it. Do colleges scrutinize the 11th year of your educational experience? Yes. That is undisputed.
Should that be the motivating and deciding factor for the choices you make? Absofreakinglutely not.
Why?
Tune in and find out.
Okay, I know this is super super super super super super x infinity late, but I had to respond to my boy MattW.
A) Matt- where are you in my life?! Huh?! Where'd you go?!
B) Matt- I still love you. Even if you listen to Jordin Sparks music.
C) Matt- I like how now that you aren't in any of my classes anymore, GUESS WHAT I HAVE TO DO ALL BY MYSELF! :D
The use of stereotypes has made girls out to seem very emotional and care giving while males are “macho” and leaders. Yet, going pretty far back till now women have been taking more roles. Back in the day when women were homemakers or central caregivers in the home it was unacceptable to be anything other that than. Now it is very common for men to share responsibilities in the household with the women. You can go outside and watch as both men and women strive for their own goals. I do believe that men and women have the same type of goals. Most of both genders wish to have a successful job, endless money, and someone to share all this with. Of course there are a few who differentiate their goals, the majority have a goal of success in mind. Girls do have their moments and they may be more frequent than needed but so do boys. Girls have a different way of showing them because they do not have to front to be tough. I have to say I am one of the girls who don’t often get emotional.
So in my mind I don’t agree with people such as Sergei J. when he gives the “victory” to men when talking about being able to stay unemotional. I don’t think you can truly characterize women and men because there are growing exceptions. I don’t agree with anyone who says men or women have it easier. While at times it may seem one gender has it easier they may have a tougher time with something else. I do feel bad for boys who mature later but it is the girls who have to deal with that. As for the physical differences I do believe there are many. From what I have seen women tend to have to worry about gaining weight and such more often then man. Also, men naturally have more upper body strength that allows them to excel in some things easier than women. Like I said earlier though, there are always exceptions.
I can honestly say if I had the chance to change places with a male even for one day I would pass on the offer. Not for the fact that I don’t think it would be fun to be in someone else’s shoes, I would rather it just be a mystery. I would rather not know what they think and when a boy looks at you or is just walking by and would rather stay guessing. I feel if women were to know exactly what men want they might end up trying too hard to please them.
At the dawn of my junior year of high school I am prepared for my hardest, most demanding year of high school. The reason for this is that when colleges take a look at your transcript at the beginning of senior year, the most recent grades they have to look at are the ones accumulated in your Junior year. Knowing this, I know that I must work harder now than ever before to have a better shot at getting into a good college growing up and living the American dream.
I expect several things from this year, first I am prepared for mountains of schoolwork. With three AP classes this year and none under my belt to prepare myself I know that I am in for a rough time. However despite my lack of previous difficult classes I plan on working harder now than ever before. The one fear I have about my third year of high school is the fact that I am growing ever closer to being in college. It seems as if just yesterday I was wandering around Oakcrest on my first day looking for my classes. Before I know it I, along with all of my peers will be applying to colleges and eventually going away to them. I ask myself, am I ready to go to college? Probably not. Will I be ready in two years? I sure hope so.
At any rate I plan on using my remaining two years of high school to prepare myself the best I can. In this upcoming year I plan on taking the SAT’s several more times. In addition to the SAT’s I must take the ACT’s and study for my three AP tests. The whole ordeal is overwhelming if you do not handle it appropriately and manage your time wisely. Doing this can be difficult if done improperly. In my forthcoming year I realize the difficulties at hand and acknowledge the struggles I face.
Last word sneak attack!
Just hedging my bets here.
Only we all noticed. Sorry, Sarah.
Shh, Eva, we must all keep it a secret.
Oh, hi. What are you guys doing here?
Knock Knock. Guess who?
Hey, everyone you thought you could get rid of me? well, too bad, you can't
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
GET OFF THE DAMN BLOG!!!!!
Sorry, I'm a little cranky from doing my reader response log. And by "a little cranky", I mean "a little insane" A couple minutes ago, I covered my eyes with my hands and said, (out loud, so I'm glad no one was around) "If I can't see it, it doesn't exist". Because for a couple seconds, I truly believed that closing my eyes would make the bad homework go away (coincidentally, as a child I took this same approach when confronted with shots and my twin brother. Unfortunately, this tactic has never really worked. Le sigh).
End rant.
Catatonic is a state of mind.
My mind, apparently.
I try to focus on homework, but more often than not, I find myself combining bad 80's music with worse 70's dance moves.
And now let us read from the Neon Bible (an album from The Arcade Fire, so no one get offended):
I'm serving time
All for a crime I did commit
You want the truth?
You know I'd do it all again
Left for dead
Heaven is only in my head!
I heard a voice
Calling from down inside a well
"See that silver shine?"
She said to come claim what was mine
So down I fell
Down into the water black
My prison cell
Only the moon was shining back!
If I seem lost, well I weighted the cost
And chose my crime
Now it's mine all mine!
I heard the voice
Calling from just outside the well
She said, "You fool, now that you know your end is near
You always fall for what you desire or what you fear!"
Resurrected
Living in a lighthouse
If you leave the ships are gonna wreck
Resurrected
Living in a lighthouse
The lions and the lambs ain't sleeping yet
Resurrected
Living in a lighthouse
Can you see the funny side the ships are gonna wreck
Resurrected
Living in a lighthouse
The lions and the lambs ain't sleeping yet (X 3)
It's really weird to be the only person posting on a blog. Sor of like talking to an empty room.
not quick enough to get by me!
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