The second quarter is over, and the year has reached its halfway point. With the recent holidays and multiple snow days, many students have had a chance to think about how the school year has been so far, and how they would like the rest of it to go. For seniors in particular, this year is very different from the previous others since it is their last year spent at Loudoun Valley, and that leads to reflection over how their high school experience has been, how this year has been different from others, and what they’ll miss when it’s over.

For some seniors, the year started out a little rough, with the switch from summer vacation to school being jarring despite soon recovering. “Getting back into the swing of things was the hardest part after summer.” Said senior Daniel McConville. “However, now I’m actually doing better academically than any of my other years.”

Other students feel the opposite, and think that the year will get tougher later. “I feel like as soon as we get closer to the end of the year, it will get a little bit stressful, but I’ll manage it.”

For seniors, this year feels different for multiple reasons, due to it being the last, plus the extra privileges they get. “I get to take less classes and arrive late and leave early which is very nice.” Said Senior Hailey Hendershot. “The feeling of “I’m actually graduating this year” also makes the year hit very different and I feel like doing all the senior activities.”

Now that it’s the last year, many students see senior year in a different light. “As a senior, school has felt like less of a chore. It feels more fun and carefree.” Said senior Porter Figerio. 

Though students may be excited for summer vacation, many seniors will miss elements of high school. “I’d definitely say I’ll miss my friends the most.” Stated Daniel McConville.

High school doesn’t last forever, and as seniors leave to set out on their own paths, it can be a good idea to use senior year to reflect on their overall high school experience.