Life after high school
Does high school prepare students for the future?
Photo by Sonya Pandya
Hritvi Ahuja, Managing Editor, Ridhi Boggavarapu, Staff Writer, & Manha Survery, Staff Writer
At Northview High School, students face a challenging academic environment designed to push them to their highest potential. The curriculum is often demanding, requiring students to develop not only strong academic skills but also time management and organizational abilities. With heavy workloads and complex assignments, many students must figure out how to balance school, extracurricular activities, and personal responsibilities. These challenges encourage independence and self-reliance, preparing students for the demands of life beyond high school.
"I think balancing academics in such a competitive STEM school may prepare me for the future in terms of time management, [but] I wish high school had less pressure and more of a learning experience," Prisha Shah, an Innovation Academy student, said.
While academics are a top priority, extracurricular activities are also an important part of the Northview experience. Many students find that participating in sports, clubs, or other extracurriculars helps them manage stress and build essential life skills. Involvement in these activities can teach valuable lessons in teamwork, time management, and leadership, offering a break from the pressures of schoolwork. Students often say that being part of a team or a club gives them a sense of purpose and helps them stay grounded, even during the busiest times of the school year.
"I honestly don't know how I would have made it through high school if I didn't have cross country [and] the clubs that I put a lot of work into because it's just so nice to have something besides school in your classes that you can be excited to come to school [for]," Lauren Skeens, a senior at Northview, said.
Northview's diverse student body creates a unique environment where students from different backgrounds have the chance to interact and learn from each other. This diversity encourages an inclusive atmosphere for students to explore from different perspectives and build connections with others. For many, these friendships are important to their high school experience. The relationships students form outside the classroom not only provide emotional support but also enhance their social and cultural understanding.
"We have such a rich environment with different people, cultures, and whatnot; it’s really fun to extend a hand and meet new people, "Jason Delong, Northview alumni, and current Northview teacher, said.
As the demands of high school grow, many students learn the importance of maintaining a balance between academics and personal well-being. While excelling in school is important, students also recognize that they must make time for relaxation, hobbies, and social activities. Finding this balance often involves setting aside time for self-care, making sure to get enough sleep, and staying connected with friends. Students who manage to strike this balance report feeling more motivated and less stressed, which helps them perform better in all areas of their lives.
"I think the most important thing is finding your own balance and realizing you don't have to be at the level that everyone around you is at," Skeens said. "You can be your own person and find your own passions, whether that be more academically or athletically."
Often, academic success at Northview is achieved by students balancing out their schedules. Many students carefully select their courses to avoid overloading themselves with too many difficult subjects in one semester. This approach allows them to pace themselves, ensuring they have time to focus on each subject without feeling overwhelmed. By spreading out challenging courses and mixing in less academic ones, students can maintain their focus and energy throughout the year.
"I did a lot of planning throughout high school to make sure that I got to take all the classes I wanted without having to put myself in a difficult position, and that is why I think I had the opportunity to be one of the best academically," Ishita Vaish, a Northview alumna, and former valedictorian said.
For some students, high school offers the chance to discover and develop their interests, which can play a significant role in shaping their future goals. Whether it’s a particular academic subject or a hobby outside of class, students who identify their passions early often find themselves more motivated and focused. Having clear interests and goals helps them navigate the pressures of high school, as they understand the value of pursuing what excites them rather than simply following the crowd.
"I'm glad I engaged myself in the Northview math team, since that's how I knew I wanted to pursue higher mathematics and computer science in college," Samee Agarwal, a Northview alumni, said. "I think Northview, if you choose the right clubs, can play a role in your life after college."
Despite the intense academic pressure, many students find that their high school experience is about more than just grades. They learn how to push themselves and work hard, but they also recognize the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and balance. As they approach graduation, students are not only prepared for the next academic challenge but also for the demands of life after high school. Northview students leave with a strong set of skills—both academic and personal—that will serve them well in college and beyond.
"The pressure everyone puts on themselves [at Northview] is so contagious. You can feel it. So letting go a little bit and realizing that there's life after high school and high school doesn't define you, your grades don't define you. There's more to life than just [academics]," Skeens said.
