As first semester comes to an end and the weather turns cold again, I start to dig the sweaters out of my closet and change my overall aesthetic to match “Gilmore Girls.” There are moments that I wish to sink into the leaf piles that are mostly still green because it’s a California fall — and I love it. I usually categorize the season into my silly habit of cutting or dyeing my hair with craft scissors and box dye when I want a change to match the vibes, and the warm scent of cinnamon is present everywhere.
Admittedly though, these months can also suck. To name a few things that cut through the air: college applications for seniors, approaching final exams and the intense stress of school projects.
Four years into high school, I’m burnt out — loving fall has never seemed harder. Still, as your senior, here’s some advice on how to live, laugh, love the beauty and pain of fall.
One. Halloween, Homecoming and Thanksgiving are just some examples of what fall brings to us. And though we’re often deeply immersed in that second quarter early burnout, there are plenty of little things to look forward to. Take a break, bake a pie, stuff yourself with seasonal Trader Joe’s snacks (their iconic peppermint bark is one of my favorites) and grab a hot chocolate — go on a hot girl walk and sip it slowly; it’s not iced drink season anymore.
We are surrounded by the looming panic to perfect our semester grades, but honestly, enjoy the cozy warmth of the season (with it literally being 80 degrees). With less than two weeks left until Thanksgiving, seniors, perhaps this is the time to really find the best answer to the “what’s something surprising someone has done for you that you’re grateful for?” Common Application personal statement prompt. And if you’re not a senior, no stress, just relax.
You’re already over a quarter of a way through the four autumns you’re given in high school, and it won’t be long before you realize how fast time is passing. Just fall in love with fall.
Advice #1: Spend time focusing on the world around you; don’t worry about the leaves falling away and just admire the changing colors.
Two. Speaking of college, the best way for underclassmen to prepare for college is to continue challenging themselves. There will be time to stress about your resume and essays, but focus the first half of high school on discovering what you love and what demonstrates you.
It’s okay to not know everything about college — it’s crucial to understand that college isn’t the only goal in high school. College is not the endgame for these four years at Los Altos High School. I didn’t even finalize my college list until some time into senior year — so juniors, it’s normal to not know everything about college right now, this is time to try everything that appeals to you. Burnout hits quick — make sure to identify what else high school offers for growth rather than latching onto college too early.
Advice #2: It’s everyone’s first time living life — slow down for once-in-a-lifetime experiences and always prioritize yourself whether it be in the midst of happiness or sadness.
With love,
Your senior Ellie Ji
