**The media below contains the opinion of an individual student and therefore does not represent or speak to the values of Vestavia Hills High School and Vestavia Hills City Schools**
The third nine weeks is like the Wednesday of the week. You can see Friday on the horizon, yet the end seems just out of reach. This week marks the beginning of the sixth week of these nine weeks—you can do it. Though we are already ⅔ through this quarter, these last three weeks will be the hardest. Teachers somehow always line up their tests and quizzes, and homework seems to pile up everyday. But don’t worry too much—everything will work out. I know I sound cliche or insensitive. However, as a senior struggling with crippling senioritis and thousands of commitments from extracurriculars, the only thing getting me through is believing I can because there is no other alternative. And I truly understand the overwhelming feeling everyone is feeling right now—I have no free weekends this entire February. Resting seems like a luxury I cannot afford.
So here’s my advice: don’t let your grades slip but prioritize yourself. If the time comes where you must choose between sleeping or finishing a 50 point assignment, go to sleep. I’ve been guilty of sacrificing my physical well-being for maintaining my academic standings, and after four years, I’ve realized that choice will never be worth it. Emarie Price agrees, advising that you “manage your time well to the point of getting work done, but don’t worry too much so you can have fun.”
This nine weeks signifies the beginning of RISE and spring sports have just begun. Since football games are over, take this time to get more involved in the copious fundraisers or support our basketball teams as they approach playoff season. Buy into that school spirit—I didn’t until my senior year and I regret it. Nothing can beat the adrenaline rush of cheering for your team while everyone else around you feels that same fervor and passion.
I am not encouraging you to stop caring about school. Motivation is tough to come by these days, but “these grades still count” as Senior Mena Monroe says. This advice especially applies to current juniors—this semester is the last grade that colleges will see during your application process. If you put the work in for this nine weeks, the fourth nine weeks will be a breeze. And though this quarter has less breaks, the fourth nine weeks have RISE day, Prom, and Spring break—all things you should enjoy while not worrying about your grades.
All this to say, enjoy this time because it flies by fast. I won’t give you an existential crisis about your future, but don’t waste these memories. Final final word of advice: live for the present but don’t forget your future.
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