As the school year comes to a close, it feels like everything is building up. Students at Lincoln-Way East are under pressure from every direction—finals, standardized tests, and for some, big decisions about what comes next after high school. The weight of it all can feel like a lot to carry, and it’s affecting everyone from freshmen to seniors. The stress, anxiety, and fear are real, but there’s one thing that helps us all cope: summer.
For freshmen and sophomores, this time of year can feel like a whirlwind. Many are facing their first big finals, and the stress of it all can be overwhelming. It’s a new experience—figuring out how to study, managing expectations, and dealing with the pressure to perform. Even though it’s a tough situation, it’s also a chance for growth. Finals may seem intimidating now, but each one is a step toward learning how to handle pressure in the future.
Juniors are in a similar boat, but with even more on their plates. The PSATs, SATs, ACTs, and finals all come at once, making this a stressful time for many. The pressure to do well on these tests can feel like a weight that never lets up. And for some, it’s not just about the tests themselves but everything that comes with them—the worry about college applications, the fear of not measuring up, and the anxiety about what the future holds. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment, but it’s important to remember that these tests don’t define you.
For seniors, the stress is different but still heavy. The end of high school means saying goodbye to family and friends, figuring out where you’ll go next, and dealing with all the uncertainty of life after graduation. College applications and essays are a huge source of anxiety for many seniors, and the worry about getting into the right college or making the right decision can feel overwhelming. It’s a time of big changes, and it’s normal to feel nervous about what’s ahead.
No matter where you are in high school, the stress is real. But there’s one thing we all have to look forward to: summer. After months of studying, worrying, and balancing everything that comes with school, summer offers a break—a chance to take a breath and recharge before the next chapter begins. It’s a time to step back from the constant grind, to relax, and to focus on things outside of school. For many, summer is when we finally get the chance to take a break from the stress and pressure that comes with being a student.
Summer isn’t just about getting away from schoolwork; it’s about taking care of yourself. It’s a chance to focus on your mental and physical health, to do things that make you happy, and to spend time with people who support you. Whether it’s sleeping in, going to the beach, reading a book for fun, or hanging out with friends, summer gives you the time to do what you love. It’s also a time to reflect on the year, to celebrate what you’ve accomplished, and to reset for the challenges ahead.
What makes summer so special isn’t just the break from school—it’s the opportunity to recharge and refocus. With so much going on throughout the school year, it’s easy to burn out, but summer gives us the time to step back and find balance again. It’s a reminder that you don’t have to be stressed all the time, and that taking a break isn’t only okay—it’s necessary.
So, while the stress of finals, tests, and big decisions may seem overwhelming now, remember that summer is right around the corner. It’s a time for rest, reflection, and resetting your mind for what’s to come. No matter what grade you’re in, we all need a break, and summer is that chance to breathe, relax, and come back stronger for the next school year. We’ve made it this far, and with the promise of summer ahead, we can tackle whatever comes next with fresh energy and a clear mind.
