Woken up by the tantalizing shrieks of their alarms, Pembroke Pines Charter High School (PPCHS) students shuffled around their quiet house, preparing for the biggest day of the year: the first day of school.
For some, August 11 marked their “last first day”, a bittersweet reminder of how quickly time passes. However, with college approaching, many seniors are learning how to deal with the stress that comes along with it.
Senior Marcus Mendez notes, “I just try not to think about the pressure, which really helps, and try to keep talking to my friends because they’re going through the same stress I am. Freshmen– enjoy 9th grade and do everything you want to do because that’s the best time [of high school].”
On the other end of the spectrum are PPCHS’s newest students: freshmen. The transition from eighth grade to ninth is not for the faint of heart. Between changing relationships, all new classes, and an overwhelming amount of choices in front of them, freshmen tend to be under immense pressure to integrate into high school quickly and effortlessly; however, that isn’t the most common scenario.
“It’s fine; I’m making friends, so that’s cool,” says freshman Danielle Brancati. “But [juggling] swimming and school is hard. Balancing the long hours and school work is tough, but overall, it will make me a better person… It also makes me not procrastinate as much because after practice, I immediately start my homework.”
Squished between the most formative grades of high school are PPCHS sophomores and juniors. For many, these years are the most difficult in students’ high school careers. Sophomore year is when high school becomes increasingly more rigorous, with an array of clubs to get involved in and advanced classes to choose from.
“Oh dear… oh no,” says sophomore Shriya Sardesai. “My first week of sophomore year was definitely a wake-up call. I’m taking a lot of AICE and AP [courses] this year, and the first week was a little preview of the rest of the school year. Luckily, I have [Student Government Association (SGA)] first period, which is a great class to start the day. I’m just hoping sophomore slump doesn’t hit too hard!”
On the other hand, junior year is the most important in terms of college applications, especially considering the SAT in April. “Honestly, I’m very, very scared of this upcoming school year… There are so many classes, clubs, and activities to do in preparation [for college] that I’m worried about how I’ll balance them all,” says Mikayla Hines, a junior at PPCHS. “I also have this looming sense of dread that all of this effort and hard work I’m putting in may not amount to anything. As you know, the future isn’t set in stone.”
Despite her valid concerns, Hines keeps a positive attitude towards the year ahead of her. “I’m very grateful that I have the [chance] to experience junior year at such a good school with wonderful opportunities and amazing students. The seniors on campus are living proof that this is all just temporary, and that I can overcome any [challenges] that come my way!”
Whether you’re starting the journey through high school, preparing for college, or somewhere in the middle, remember to take a moment and relax. Back to school is one of the most exhausting and stressful parts of the year, so don’t get overwhelmed too early on. Set yourself up for success early; make the 2025-2026 school year one to remember.
