By Ivette Barajas, Karimar Gatica, and Michael Rodillo
Like every other high school in America, Tustin High contains students ranging from different grades, ages, cultures, interests, hobbies, etc. In the small but significant four years spent in high school, there is a drastic transition that occurs in every single individual; whether it be physical, mental, emotional, or all of the above, everyone goes through it. Coming from one student that has barely begun their high school experience and one whose journey is slowly coming to an end, this is the genuine high school experience:
To some freshmen, transitioning from middle school into high school was just an upgrade in school size. “Personally, it feels the same except Tustin High is a lot bigger…’’, says Anthony Gonzalez. Upon being asked if the work in high school was more demanding or overwhelming than in junior high, he answered “No, it’s just the amount of effort you put in towards your work. In order to succeed, you have to try hard with everything you turn in.” Since Gonzales was running low on time, the interview ended with one last notable question: what message would you give to incoming 8th graders? He replied, “To all the incoming 8th graders, brace yourself for high school… you can either go with the flow, or get left behind. It won’t wait for you to catch up.” That’s one way to warn them.
Fast forward four years and you’ve grown three inches, had five different hairstyles, failed at least one math test, and you’re buying your cap and gown. From the beginning of freshman year to graduation, you experience the highest of the highs, and the lowest of the lows; overall, an abundance of emotions and feelings you can’t even explain. We stopped fellow Tiller Joey Jamrozik to answer a few questions and reminisce on his four year journey. He confessed that, although it’s been a tough ride at times, “It’s all been worth it to get to this current point. College applications are done, it’s second semester senior year, and I’m just enjoying the ride at this point and taking each day as it comes.” The thought of leaving a place that has, in a sense, become your home for the last four years is a terrifying one. Leaving your friends, your home, and every process that has become routine is not an easy task. Jamrozik stated, “Although it is sad knowing you won’t be seeing these people everyday anymore, I know I’ll stay in contact with my close friends. Also, as I’ve grown up, I’ve realized my best days are still ahead of me. It is best not to dwell and sulk on the past, rather look up and ahead for the future.” Before we let our interviewee go, we asked for a piece of advice to freshman who are barely embarking their four year trek, “Take it slow, relax, and enjoy it. I never believed anyone when they told me it’d go by in the blink of an eye, but it really does.”
There you have it.