As we are now a few weeks into the second semester and quarter three of this academic school year, I wanted to reflect on some things that occurred during the first semester.

Moving on from Semester One was bittersweet as it was my last first semester here at JC.

From ending half-credit courses to trying to finalize grades, Semester One was nothing short of stressful, full of learning, and difficult goodbyes.

First, the classes. My half-credit courses last semester consisted of Intro to Business, Exploration of Human Rights, and Public Speaking.

Each class was special in its own way, and I took incredibly valuable lessons and experiences from them.

Intro to Business taught me about personal finances and interesting marketing techniques.

Exploration of Human Rights allowed me to learn about genocides that I did not even know occurred. Due to Public Speaking, I now do not get nervous before presentations or speeches.

I urge underclassmen to consider taking these classes or classes that appeal to their interests. There are multiple electives that they can take that they would not find anywhere else.

Grades are also essential as colleges track progress, a decline in grades, and the difficulty of classes.  Continue to work hard even as a senior because colleges continue asking for my semester or quarter two grades.

I am very excited about my new classes: Food and Nutrition, Advanced Creative Writing, and Honors Philosophy as well as finishing my high school journey on a strong note.