WOODBURY- As the school year progresses closer to its end, NHS 9th, 10th, and 11th graders are starting to look ahead into the upcoming year. With class registration going, students are picking their courses for next year and planning for the future.
Although the amount of freedom students have when it comes to planning the courses they want to take next year is nice, It can also be hard to limit the classes to fit into the certain amount of credits students are allowed each semester.
“I still see some kids who feel like 8 periods are not enough,” Stephanie Gutierrez, an NHS counselor said. “Some kids will have to make tough decisions when there is a conflict in the schedule.”
Although choosing classes can be a major stressor to students, there are also the types that are
Indifferent to the course selection process.
“I think there are like two types of kids,” Gutierrez said, “there are the types who try to challenge themselves along with the ones who try to get what they need to graduate –the minimum which is not always in their best interest.”
Many students look forward to picking their upcoming classes. Courses like art and music can be a refreshing change of pace in comparison to core academic classes.
“I’m looking forward to ceramics next year,” Adelyn Cetrone, an NHS freshman said. “It seems like a really fun class to take.”
Along with unique electives, some students crave high level riggers that could be found in honors and AP classes. While fun exploratory classes are always a relief to students, there are also some challenging courses that NHS students may perceive as daunting.
For many underclassmen, electives and AP courses are some of the most nerve-racking parts to scheduling. For example, sophomores and juniors are starting to take more specialized classes to help them with their future career goals and interests.
“I’m taking UConn ECE, AP, and Honors classes,” Payton Brown, a sophomore at NHS said. “I’m nervous about the workload and managing it with my sports.”
Although many students are enthusiastic about next year’s schedules, others admit they are nervous about balancing difficult courses with sports, clubs, jobs, and other activities. AP and honors classes are known for their heavier workloads, causing some students to feel both excitement and pressure.
“I’m excited for the challenge, but I’m also worried about the amount of homework,” said Brianna Poliquin, a freshman at NHS. “I want to do well, but I know next year will be busy.”
