Now that I’m a freshman…

The first few weeks of freshman year are the most hectic with the new campus and faces, along with adjusting to the new time and block scheduling. Among them is freshman Neha Anand, who is juggling field hockey, choir and Indian awareness club while still coming to terms with the major differences of high school.

Having played field hockey for three years in middle school, Anand is comfortable and ready to contribute to this year’s field hockey team, although the difference of age between players is an issue.

“[The older members] are all comfortable with the school, and we’re all newbies,” Anand said.
On the other hand, choir has been a great way for her to meet new friends. While choir is mostly made up of freshmen, Anand has had the chance to meet other students at the choir retreat.

Through choir Anand has been able to meet several other students involved in another activity she plans on doing—the Indian Cultural Awareness Club. Although she has had a passion for Bollywood dancing and was already set on joining the club, watching previous Bombay in the Bay performances further solidified her decision.

While Anand has been overwhelmed with many activities, she has not completely assimilated with the structure of high school. While block scheduling is a positive factor for many students (as it gives more leeway for procrastination), Anand is having a hard time adjusting to not having the schedule be the same day to day.

“It gets confusing to remember what classes and what homework I need to do [with block scheduling],” she said.

Nevertheless, she admits to liking the larger school population. In addition to reuniting with the friends that graduated from middle school earlier, Anand has gotten to know the more experienced students of the school.

“They’re all really nice, so if I needed help I would definitely ask,” Anand said.

Despite the big differences from the comforts of middle school, Anand is enjoying high school.
“So far I’m still getting used to the school, but if you get involved, it’s a lot of fun.” Anand said.