Senior year has the potential to be whatever you choose, and as springtime begins to set in here in Wexford, the NASH Counseling team is hard at work on next year’s schedule. For many juniors, this is a crucial decision-making period that can dictate future goals, particularly the path they will pursue in the coming year.

This year, the administration is offering many new courses, as well as classes that can be lead college credit. The College in High School program offered through La Roche and other local universities allows students in select courses to obtain credits to use later for a much lower price. These credits are transferable and are now available in many elective classes, too. With these new opportunities, the NASH student body has new ways to focus in on their interest and talents.

“Depending on where students plan on going to college, some really increase their rigor, while others decide to spend the year pursuing what matters to them,” NASH Counselor Ms. Bielawski said. “This can be backed by the interest we’ve generated with the CHS program.”

For the junior class, the time has arrived.  Academics or APs? Fun or frustration? Commonly, this differentiation produces a mixed bag of responses.

“I want senior year to be filled with both academic success and a little bit of peace, too,” Ellie Rapp said. “If that means fewer APs, then I’ll do that and enjoy it more.”

Ashley Borg largely agreed. “I want to do more,” the junior said. “A lot of the more difficult science courses interest me. Pursuing my interests is the most important thing for me”.

The Counseling team approves of such approaches where students demonstrate an awareness of their interests and time availability.

“I would say that, when it comes to scheduling for juniors, the most important thing is the increased time and opportunities they have.” Mrs. Buettner said.”When thinking about next year’s electives, it is important to consider the areas where they show interest.”.

Although this time of year can be quite stressful for students and staffers alike, the prospects of a new year provide newfound optimism and excitement. And though the opinion can be divided over how exactly to schedule their last year of high school, juniors are generally in agreement that they should make the most of each moment they have left here at NA.