Walking through the doors as a freshman and returning back to being the youngest kid on campus, can be a very scary experience. The halls seem bigger, the upperclassmen look more intimidating than you had ever imagined, and finding your way to your classes can feel like an endless maze. In the blink of an eye, you are suddenly surrounded by unfamiliar faces, hard classes, and a whole new set of expectations.
However, every upperclassman you see confidently walking the halls, was once in your shoes. “The key to making the most out of your freshman year is trying new things, and enjoying your time while you can.” said Senior Kaeden Kasselman. Kasselman has been involved in a number of clubs and extracurricular activities such as being a 3 sport athlete, a Student Council member, a member of NHS, and many more during his high school years. He encouraged others to get involved as soon as possible. “Getting involved early allows you to meet new people, learn new things, and discover things you are truly passionate about. Whether you play a sport, join a club, or even just going to a school dance can create connections and memories that will last a lifetime,” said Kaeden.
Senior Kora Rex, when asked if she could give a freshman advice, said “Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Everyone was new at some point, and most people are more than happy to help if you simply ask.” She emphasized how stressful high school can feel, but said asking for help–whether that’s in the classroom, understanding assignments, or getting involved with activities–can make a huge difference. Kora said, “You don’t always have to ask your questions to teachers, as fellow students can also answer questions you may have. All of us upperclassmen were in your shoes, and are more than willing to help.” Kora expanded on the importance of being involved, just like her peer Kaeden Kasselman said, as she is involved in sports, National Honors Society, KAY Club, SADD, and is also a class officer.
Tate Nelson, a senior, said “Enjoy it while you can, because it goes by fast. High school has given me so many amazing memories, and I wish I would have enjoyed it more while I could.” As graduation approaches, Nelson reflected on some of his best memories here at Garden Plain, and said, “We don’t appreciate what we have until it’s gone.” He also shared the importance of being involved—whether sports, groups, and clubs, to even just interacting within the classroom—is an easy way to find to meet new people and become accompanied to high school life.
Senior Jewel Gallagher, said “The advice I would give to an incoming freshman, is to soak in every moment you can. There’s happiness in every place, you just have to be open to experiencing it.” Soaking up every moment you can is a recurring theme from these seniors, as each of them wish they could restart, and live through four more years of memories. She went on to say, “Don’t be afraid to work hard and try new things, because in the end it’s better to say you lived and learned, rather than you were too scared to even start. For example, one new thing I tried in my time in high school was pole vault my sophomore year. I fell in love with it, and am still competing in the event today.” Pole vault has proven to be a passion of Jewel’s, as she took 1st at state in class 2A pole vault during the 2024 season.
As these seniors prepare for the next chapter of their lives, they leave behind many wise words for incoming freshmen. “The greatest recommendation I can give to incoming freshmen is to get involved, and find your niche, because it is gonna help connect you and build relationships with your teachers, peers, coaches, and more. Finding this connection helps you feel like you belong, and increases your overall high school experience.” said GPHS Counselor Kirsten Moritz. “This outgoing senior class is very driven, and that motivation and drive they have will help lead them to success in a number of ways. One thing I hope they learn is that in order to succeed, sometimes they must fail.”
As seniors prepare to leave the halls they have walked for years, their advice is a reminder that high school is more than just grades and classes. It’s about growth, friendships, discovering who you are, and making memories that will last a lifetime. For the freshman just beginning their journey, these words of wisdom are a guide to making the most of every moment. Don’t be afraid to take risks, stay true to yourself, and don’t be afraid to ask for help–because, before you know it, you’ll be the one giving advice to the next group of students ready to take on the next chapter of their lives.
