Dear readers,

Welcome to the first regular issue of The Musket, and congratulations on completing quarter one! By now, you’ve probably settled comfortably in some classes, developed instinctive chills walking into others, made friends with a table group or two, and perhaps bombed a test (personal experience there). That is to say, I hope your first quarter went well.

As life at LHS begins to resemble an uneven rollercoaster with stress, tests, and expectations (trademarks of an authentic high school experience), this is the time to establish healthy study habits and ask about unclear guidelines. Whether you’re ready or not, you’re now strapped in on the ride. Welcome aboard!

Often, as we’re teetering on the upward incline, a fear of falling kicks in. We might be afraid to get on the ride just from the outside look of it, or request to get off when the tracks extend beyond our view. If you’re unsure about the path ahead, such as which major to pursue, you’re not alone. Millions of students enter college or university undecided every year, and indicating a major doesn’t mean you’re locked into it forever; colleges know that students are dynamic, along with their interests. Rather than committing to a career path, choosing a major is about expressing a desire to learn more. Colleges want to see you, but they’re not looking for a pristine version of you. The bumps and ridges along the way are what make the ride meaningful.

Time may be chasing after us while we write in-class essays, but exploration is a lifelong endeavor. Realistically speaking, college years are the prime time to experiment with options, especially as we embrace new levels of independence and responsibility, lifelong soulmates strapped in with us as we venture into the real world.

To my fellow seniors: in the midst of early application deadlines, the writing you submitted only a week ago might now seem terribly unrefined compared to your newly edited drafts. I know it’s tempting, but don’t look back and demand better of your past self; we face forward on the ride, always.

Rollercoasters may seem scary from the outside, but you never know how it truly is or how it will truly turn out until you ride along with it. Remember, however frazzled we may look on the way there, the ride is meant to usher us forward. As a final note, the ride doesn’t end yet, or ever—there’s always more fun to come.

With hopeful anticipation,

Ella