Just One Semester Left!

Grace Cho | January 30, 2023

Photo courtesy: Aditi Kumar

Winter break went by way too quickly. That means two things. On the bright side, we’re almost at the halfway point of the school year! Make sure you congratulate yourself for making it this far; it’s not an easy feat. The bad news, however, is that this means many hardships are to come—starting today! The second semester is one of the busiest times of the year. With tests, assignments, and projects piling up without end, it’s important to know how to effectively manage your time, and balance school with your own well-being. To start, yes, that means no all-nighters. As much as you may want to get those 7s, staying up all night won’t do you or your grades any good.

Starting with 9th graders: the start of the second semester means getting a glimpse into what the future of high school will look like. The Personal Project will begin this semester, so it’s always good to prepare for what’s to come. Brainstorm some topics you may want to explore by first asking yourself: what are you passionate about?

Don’t feel the need to finish everything over the summer. In fact, it may be better to wait and receive feedback from advisors and teachers during the school year in 10th grade. Time is plentiful; there’s no need to stress.

Speaking of 10th grade, semester two welcomes the transition from MYP to the notorious DP curriculum. Choosing what courses to take, this HL course versus the other, college consideration— there’s so much thought required for this part of the year. Although the decisions are ultimately up to you, there’s always going to be assistance: there’s no need to worry. You’re not alone in this huge life step. Reach out to upperclassmen about their experiences, and definitely don’t be afraid to ask for advice or support. They’re more than happy to help because they were once in your shoes too.

If PP was a small step, EE is like doing the long jump in the Olympics. Juniors, be

ready to start the mighty 4,000-word report over the course of summer to the beginning of your senior year.. But don’t worry! Just like for the 9th and 10th graders, all necessary preparation and support will be provided. You were trained through prior projects like the personal project: a “demo” of what the final EE report will be like. Use past experiences, successes, and failures to conquer the upcoming EE.

And finally to our seniors: good luck. We wish you the best of luck in whatever may await you as you wrap up this chapter of your life. Just like this, the second semester means different things to different grades. But whatever it is that this busy time of year holds for you, don’t lose your confidence. Push through these remaining months with your head held high. We’re almost there, we’ve got this.