Gabby Beckham ’27, Feature Writer

(Class of 2024, Newark Academy Instagram).

Most people believe the four years of high school fly by and are some of the best times of your life. But when you finally reach senior year, walk across the stage, and receive your diploma, you might find yourself asking, “What’s next?” Graduation is often seen as the ultimate goal, but for some, it can feel like just the beginning of a new chapter or new set of uncertainties.

Some students seem to glide effortlessly into their futures, with college plans all lined up and majors chosen. They know where they’re going, what they want to study, and how they will make their mark on the world. But what if you’re sitting there, feeling a little lost? What if you are just as confused about your passions and dreams as you were on the first day of freshman year? When well-meaning teachers and family members ask what you are passionate about or what makes you excited, you might feel like you are scrambling for answers. Well, it turns out, that is completely normal, no matter what age you are. 

High school is where you discover who you are as a person by growing from past mistakes, overcoming obstacles, and persevering every single day. As a sophomore, I have started to realize that it’s important not to worry too much about how others perceive you. Focusing on how you see yourself is much more valuable, even if that’s not always easy. 

Looking back, you may wish you had gotten involved in activities like tennis or learning the piano earlier on. If so, make sure to remind yourself that there’s still plenty of time to explore new interests. The clock has not run out yet. There are still opportunities to discover what you truly enjoy. Maybe you will discover a hidden talent for painting or find joy in cooking. Perhaps you might feel tempted to join the school play or pick up a musical instrument. The exciting part about this time in our lives is that it is full of potential and possibilities. 

So, while it is OK to feel uncertain about the future, remember that high school is just the beginning of a much larger journey. Embrace the adventure, and do not hesitate to explore different paths. Each day is a chance to learn something new about yourself — and who knows what wonderful surprises await. After all, this is just the first chapter, and there is so much more to come. The friendships you forge, the lessons you learn, and the experiences you gather along the way will shape who you are and who you will become. It is all about making mistakes, celebrating small victories, and finding joy in the process. As we navigate this transformative time, keep an open mind and heart. You never know when inspiration might strike or when a chance encounter might lead to a newfound passion. Trust the process, and remind yourself that every twist and turn can get you where you’re meant to be. The adventure is just beginning, and after all this is just the first chapter, and there’s so much more to come.