With the start of the 2024-2025 school year, Meridian is seeing an influx of new freshmen who are just beginning their highschool journey. Freshman year is a tough time for many students, especially those who have yet to experience high school to its fullest. As stated by the NIH, 53% of freshmen have been reportedly experiencing high mental strain and emotional exhaustion as a result of the harder classes and new environment. This is no different for Meridian’s incoming class of 2028.
There are a plethora of struggles for freshmen, ranging from anxiety towards keeping up with their peers, to falling behind in the rigorous IB classwork present in the Diploma Program. Despite being only a few weeks into school at Meridian, freshmen are already feeling the pressure weigh down on them.
“Honestly, it’s only been eight days into school and I already have homework in all my classes,” Raneem Sameer said, feeling overwhelmed by this immediate change of pace and seeking motivation to complete these deliverables in a timely manner.
The immense workload given so early in the school year for freshmen is a massive stressor, many students worrying that they are already falling behind. “I can already tell it’s gonna be a switch from middle school, like the work is gonna be harder.” Maggie Whittle stated.
However, while incoming high-schoolers are finding time to adjust with the new academic rigor, many students have positive opinions about the new school environment. “This place [High School Building] is so much prettier than the Mays building,” Jon Bailey said, excited to experience classes in a whole new environment. The new building is a door that opens possibilities that these freshmen have not unlocked before.
Meridian’s IB curriculum has also proved incredibly helpful in preparing students for their future careers, allowing high-schoolers to standout amongst their AP peers in other public schools. So despite the worries of starting high school for the first time, freshmen everywhere in Meridian are excited for the new memories they will build, such as homecoming, field trips, pep rallies, and plays: “I’m really excited for the fall play,” Bailey remarks as a proud theater student.
So even though high school can seem daunting, and the work can seem impossible to finish, the perks are definitely present. Students are given more freedom, and are able to learn and grow in a positive, intimate environment with the opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime.