Monday, January 28, 2008 High School High By Karl Aries Emerson F. Cabilao
TWO months (or less) to go before graduation time. Surely, high school seniors are now overwhelmed not just with crunch-time-requirements in class but also with excitement about moving on to the next level–college. Before you plan your upcoming college life, take time to relish the stuff that you would probably experience only in high school. So while you are on your last days as a high school student, try to look back to the events that made the last four years a blast for you and your school buddies. Besides, these might be too big and too many for your yearbook.
Those Extra-Curriculars. Classes are often shortened or cancelled with the holding of the Intramurals, Science Fairs, Linggo ng Wika programs and many others. The high school calendar is typically “Pinoy”–it’s full of “holidays.” The after-school-hours practice and project-making sessions make extended stays in the campus during class days completely fine. And these activities are opportunities for additional points in the class standing and make great impressions not just on your teachers but also with classmates.
Your Teachers. Okay...some of them may have made some of your classes a nightmare. But all that pales in comparison with most of the professors that you’re going to deal with in college. Also, it’s your high school teachers that often address you on first name basis. That definitely adds some comfort while in class.
The Gear. That knapsack may have weighed tons but it is a fashion tool. You often ask Mom to buy bags with the most striking color or those with the most number of “secret chamber” pockets. Of course, the contents of the bag also give color to the bummer atmosphere during “Back to School” season. Some feel a dose of excitement when they already have to buy their notebooks, books, pens and other school supplies on their own. At times, some even give these stuff a character reflective of their personality by jazzing these up with cool covers and other borloloys.
Weekend Malling. After the CAT formations, every high school student anticipates the weekend getaways. It’s no wonder why the malls are packed with high school kids on Saturday afternoons. You may have more time for outings in college (especially during long breaks from classes) but you’d appreciate these more in high school when free time like these are exclusively slated on weekends.
The Barkada. A lot of real and promising friendships are forged in high school. From recess and lunch break to the after-class dismissal activities, there is never a dull moment with these souls, with whom you share more than just blithesome tales. This circle is your refuge and your forum for a free-for-all exchange of ideas and secrets. This explains why high school graduations are bittersweet affairs.