As we all step into the halls this fall, we will all encounter different experiences based on our grades. For freshmen, it’s a whirlwind of anxiety, new friends, and plenty of excitement. For seniors, it’s nostalgia and anticipation for their final year at NDP. Even though they’re different, freshman and senior year are both pivotal high school years that can teach us a lot about academic, social, and spiritual growth throughout all four years. Join us as we delve into the world of high school through the eyes of Kathrine Phelan, a senior, and Reese Romano, a freshman.
First day of school morning routine.
F: For my first day of high school, I will wake up way earlier than I need to because I will probably be freaking out! I’ll wake up, put my blazer on for the first time, and get ready because I’m sure my mom will want to take tons of pictures on my first day. Then, my dad will drive me to school, and we’ll talk about how nervous, but excited, I am for my first day. Finally, once my dad and I figure out the drop-off process, I’ll be on my way into my first day as a new Blazer!
S: I will get up around 6:30 and get ready. Feed my cat, Sabrina, take one last first day of school picture, and then I’m off. I have to leave time to stop by Dunkin and get donuts for the senior tailgate! When I finally get to school, I park in the senior lot for the first time, with all my best friends! Everyone is sharing treats, taking pictures and TikToks, and overall just being so excited to see each other for one last school year.
What clubs/sports are you in this year?
F: Freshman year I will be a Gateway writer, member of the soccer team, training to be an ambassador, trying out for track, and hoping to join the Spanish club.
S: This year I will be a Gateway Co-Editor, President of Student Council, President of Ski Club, member of the tennis team, Women in Medicine Club, Live for Lara Club, Spanish Club, French Club, Chinese Club, and DEIA. I’m so excited to see how my role develops in each.
What new class are you most excited to take?
F: This year I am looking forward to taking Biology and Engineering. I chose Engineering Principles and Design as my elective this year and since I have never had the option to take a class like this, I am very interested to see what we learn and how I can benefit from our lessons. Also, since middle school, I have been looking forward to Biology because we were always required to take Earth Science, which focused more on ecosystems and ecology. I think this year Biology will be one of the most interesting subjects for me!
S: 2 of my classes I am most looking forward to are Beginner Guitar and AP Psychology. Both of which I have wanted to enroll in for my entire high school career. Beginner Guitar never fit into my schedule until now and I’m so excited to be able to play some of my favorite Zach Bryan songs on it. I’m also expecting it to be mostly underclassmen so I’m excited to get to spend time with them! For AP Psychology, it is only offered to seniors, and ever since I heard about it as a freshman, I always knew it would be on my schedule senior year! The subject really interests me, and I see psychology as a prospective future career for me. I can’t wait to learn more!
What NDP tradition are you most looking forward to this year?
F: This year I am definitely excited for everything since it’s my first year but specifically, I can’t wait to pick my class colors. I think class colors are the first thing a class gets to choose together, and it marks the beginning of your class’s journey through the next four years. I’m also looking forward to meeting my Big Sister and of course, Gym Meet!
S: This year I am most looking forward to Gym Meet. It is always the time of year that your class bonds the most with each other and with the other classes. I am so excited that we get to set the example of how it is done this year for the younger classes. We have worked hard all the other years, and after winning our plaque in dance last year, I am confident we can win the silver cup! I have been saving Aerobics since I loved it so much in my freshman year, so I am so excited to finally be able to participate in that again!
What has been your most memorable moment so far at NDP?
F: Since I haven’t had many moments as a Blazer yet I would say so far, my most memorable moment was getting accepted to NDP. Since I visited NDP in 7th grade, I knew it was the right place for me. I had a bunch of friends going into 9th grade as I was still waiting back in 8th grade which made it even harder to wait all year. After the HSPT and Decision Day, I was so proud of how patient I was and it made the whole experience mean even more.
S: My most memorable moment at NDP was Ring Day. The whole day was so special because the whole community was focused on us and celebrating us. First, that liturgy was so special for our class. After having practiced for the ceremony so many times, it was a thrill to do the actual thing. After that, with everyone going outside to get pictures, it was so fun, and we were the stars of the show! It was so cool after seeing our older sisters get to experience this every year and it was just as fun. Later when we had the ring dance, it was the most special occasion, and everyone knew it! That whole day was definitely my favorite and most memorable moment of NDP.
What is one piece of advice you would tell your future self?
F: I would tell my future self to focus on being present and grateful for everything she has. In four years, I will be graduating from NDP after what I’m sure will be four of the best high school years I could imagine. Although it seems so far away for the freshman, the time will fly, and we won’t be able to cherish the memories we make if we aren’t living in the moment each day. I would tell future Reese to continue to make the most of every opportunity so that when senior year does come around, I can look back and be proud of the impact I made on the school community and with my involvement.
S: I would tell myself not to worry and trust in God’s plan. Right now, I am at a pivotal point in my life. Choosing a college and a major sets up the path for the rest of my life. In 4 years, I will most likely be graduating college, another pivotal time in my life. When the stress of choosing the wrong thing becomes too much, I must remind myself, that no matter what I decide, God’s plan is ultimately going to reign true. I find that it gives me clarity and peace to know that no matter what decision I make, if I honor God with it, it will be the right one. From the song, “2 Days into College” by Aimee Carty, she says, “If it’s meant to happen it will happen any way”. Knowing that gives me peace. So future Katherine, I hope you stay true to yourself and true to God’s plan for you.
In conclusion, whether it’s freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior year, there are always lessons to be learned, friends to be made, and new challenges to face each year of your high school journey!
Thomas Bender • Sep 5, 2024 at 5:48 pm
Loved reading these different perspectives. Though I have to say, I’m surprised neither of you said you were looking forward to English class this year!