Graphic by Rachel Grooms

Former  Lasso Editor-in-Chief, Stella Turner (‘23), shares her wisdom after graduating from Meridian this year. 

The last year of high school is a crazy conglomerate of experiences and emotions. Enjoy the highs, persist through the lows, and do it all surrounded by the singular Falls Church community that most seniors will be saying goodbye to after graduation.

Don’t check out too quickly.

Yes, it’s incredibly tempting to submit your college applications and be done with high school work. Unfortunately, there are pesky little tasks you have to fulfill in your senior year — like passing enough classes to graduate — which require you to put a little bit of effort towards academics. Stay engaged for a little while longer and the sense of accomplishment at the end of the year will be worth it.

Give yourself time to relax and do what you love.

Whether it involves sports, hanging out with friends, eating, participating in clubs, sleeping, or spending time with family, you deserve to spend time doing what you genuinely enjoy. Many students spend their high school years focusing on activities that will impress on paper, but this is a great time to evaluate what you truly love to do.

Don’t fall into the college talk trap.

Applying to college is exciting and nerve wracking for the entire grade. You will probably want to know all about where people are applying, their decisions, and how they compare to you. As interesting as this may be, remember to be respectful of your peers’ individual journeys, and try not to have every conversation revolve around next-year plans. 

Consider the legacy you want to leave.

Every student has taken on some sort of leadership role by their senior year, whether titled or unofficial. Consider the knowledge and experience you have gained over the past four years, and what you need to pass on to underclassmen who can continue your legacy at Meridian. This may be finding a new president for your club, passing on sports captain tips, or just telling a younger friend where the best napping couches are. 

Have fun and be kind.

Whether you are brand new to Meridian or have been in FCCPS for 13 years, this is a time to bond as a grade over all your K-12 experiences. Be loud at pep rallies, show up for spirit events, and appreciate all those unique high school aspects that you will be leaving behind next year. Get excited for your future plans, but do not let them overshadow all the exciting things you get to experience now.