By Hunter Alba and Henry Weitz

The stress of classes and college is almost over for the senior class. The end of the year provides a unique opportunity for the senior class to reflect on their choices throughout almost four years at Ponte Vedra High School. The wisdom the departing senior class has to offer can also benefit juniors, sophomores, and freshmen in their time left at school. So, the question is, what would seniors do differently? 

One of the hardest parts of high school is junior year and the stress that college applications and standardized testing bring. Senior, Olivia Baldwin said that “I would probably have spent more time and effort studying for the SAT and ACT”. As Baldwin describes, students in their junior year devote lots of time to studying for either the ACT or SAT but when the dust settles there can still be much to be desired. Senior, Brady Rice states something he would go back, and change is to, “Take that one extra step” because, “You never know what may be the difference between grades and sometimes that can have a huge impact on your GPA, and what college you get into. Putting in that extra effort can open countless opportunities and options for college”. This is a mindset that many high school students exhibit once the tenuous process of studying, testing, and applying is finally at its end. 

Outside of academics, other seniors reflected on their participation in school life and how they would change their approach to it. Senior, Penny Zarczynski stated, “I’d probably try and live in the moment more. I feel like there were so many times that were so fun and so great, but I don’t think I enjoyed those moments as much at the time.” Many often wish that they had joined more clubs or pursued leadership roles. Others said that time management and school-life balance was important for personal well-being.  

For many seniors, the process of applying to colleges is a stressful time that forces them to look back on their academic record. In some cases, students find themselves wishing they had begun planning sooner and used more school resources. Many also wish they had slowed down and made sure to experience every moment. Senior, Cole Rambler stated, “I wouldn’t take my time in high school for granted and I would savor my time with my friends.” It’s quite often during this time that Seniors wish they had taken an AP class more seriously or developed closer relationships with teachers who could have written them more impactful letters of recommendation. 

The overall message from seniors is clear, start preparing earlier, stay in line with your goals, and don’t take your time in high school for granted. It’s key to plan ahead, both academically and socially. Take classes seriously but don’t let grades deplete your mental health or social life. As the class of 2026 prepares to fill the roles that the seniors are leaving behind, they can do so with an opportunity to learn from previous seniors themselves and hopefully avoid some of the same regrets. 

Graphic by Ryder Navarra