It’s over a month into senior year, and I still have yet to believe that I have come this far. I distinctly remember sitting in the auditorium during freshman assemblies, choosing my sophomore history electives and being jealous of non-juniors getting a late arrival while I took the ACT.

As I began my final year at South, I realized that there would be a lot of “lasts” that I would come across in the coming months. Last Homecoming, last Variety Show, even last first issue of the Oracle. As each of these events that came as if by second nature pass, it has dawned on me that I simply need to slow down and smell the roses.

Seniors, I know we’re all anxious to graduate and get out of here as fast as possible. Believe me, I’ve had that mentality for the majority of my high school career. But, just think, we will never have another experience quite like what we had here at South. The year will be done soon enough, but will you have lived your high school life to the fullest?

Despite my seemingly optimistic outlook, there were times when I wished I did things that I didn’t. I wish I tried out for the drumline my freshman year. I wish I signed up for radio or TV at some point of high school. I wish I got that A in that one class where I got a B because I didn’t try.

Although I had many aspirations I didn’t fulfill, I’ve taught myself that it’s important not to live in the past. I am finally a part of the leading class at Glenbrook South, and I have full intention of making the best of my long-awaited position. Senioritis will be fighting its way into all of our heads in the coming months, but we can’t let it ruin our final year as high school students.

Senior year is a time for reflection. Find the balance between nostalgia of past years (or rather the happier times when college applications weren’t due) and looking to the future. This year is the highlight of our high school career, and though we have much to look forward to next year when we ship off to college, some moments this year are worth noting.

For me personally, I have my last season of marching band. The past few years with the drumline have been great, and I’m even more excited to make the front line as a snare drummer this year. Alongside that, my last Variety Show is definitely noteworthy. As of now, I’m already compiling acts with my friends to audition.

Last but certainly not least, my last year on Oracle is sure to be a doozy. Being a part of the staff and editorial board for the past four years has granted me an experience that I will never forget, and I’ll be sure to end this year with a bang and make the best of my editor-in-chief position.

Looking to my future, much of it is still uncertain, as I’m sure many of yours are. What college I’ll attend, who my roommate will be, what activities I’ll get involved in while there. Even my plans for college in general are still a blur. But first, there’s the rest of senior year to worry about before I get there.