As the first semester comes to a close, a motivating wave of new opportunities washes through the halls. As second semester courses begin, GPA advancement chances arise and a clean Schoology page are part of the semester’s signature reset.
With managing spring musicals and studying for SATs, a softer course load is something that makes Syrianna Ibekwe ‘26, grateful for the reset. With classes like chemistry and chior, utilizing a planner was Ibekwe’s biggest tool throughout the semester.
“Usually the first semester is really nice, it’s relaxing and chill. Though this semester was the start of my junior year, with 4 AP classes it was a lot going on.” Ibekwe said. “It became super hectic working on balancing school with my extracurriculars and sports. I mean it is my fault but I think I handled it.”
Tackling the first Freshman semester of high school is certainly a challenging adaption. This is true for Madeline Gates ‘28, who is taking a full schedule of honors courses. She found in the balance of sports and school, the importance of good study habits grows.
“I’m really grateful for my mom, she bought me Quizlet Premium recently and it’s really helped my comprehension,” Gates said. “I’m using different techniques I didn’t use last semester, so hopefully that works better for me.”
Maintaining a consistent schedule and employing a positive attitude are some of the best skills to take into the school year’s second half. Planning tasks in advance as well as exercising good attendance, Jack Jarvis ‘26 tackles common challenges such as SAT preparation and avoiding negative influences.
“I’m trying my best to start work early and not just the day before,” Jarvis said. “The difficulty across the board of my courseload is all increasing. I’m trying to avoid negative influences that can affect my motivation.”
The value of a break in the day, such as an easy-going elective or a tutorial, is beneficial to many, including Ibekwe. Numerous students at South take tutorials during one or both semesters to alleviate stress in their schedules.
“This semester I finally have a tutorial fifth hour, I’m really grateful for the break,” Ibekwe said. “I didn’t have one last semester so hopefully, that will help me do even better in my classes.
