As graduation season approaches and incoming freshmen are preparing to enter high school, a place full of possibilities, students from the class of 2024 give their most valuable advice. Seniors shared a unanimous piece of advice. The more you put in, the more you get out. Hugues Bindel ‘24 emphasized the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people and taking advantage of Prep’s many resources. Megan Moffitt ‘24 was able to get the most out of her high school experience by joining clubs and applying herself to opportunities, while Henri Downer ‘24 underlines the importance of balance and trying new things.

Bindel, a pillar of the business club and frequent Kairos leader, underlined the importance of a “supportive network.” When asked how first- and second-year students can navigate their academic journey effectively, he reassures them, “Don’t be afraid to ask for help; it is a sign of strength, not weakness.” While academics are crucial, he has learned that it is equally important to engage in activities that bring joy and to “prioritize your well-being.” Reflecting on his own journey, Bindel wishes he had realized earlier that teachers and outside resources can be a tremendous source of support. He acknowledges the inevitable ups and downs of high school life and shares his biggest challenge, which was feeling a disconnect with others and thinking someone is better than him. Despite challenges, Bindel found comfort by surrounding himself with supportive peers, which led to a sense of belonging and community.

Moffitt, who leads as a captain of the women’s lacrosse and basketball teams and serves as a peer mentor, and leader on many retreats, shared how she manages her time balancing sports, social life, and academics. She said she while she is still refining her time management skills, she stresses the importance of prioritizing sleep and mental health amidst a busy schedule. Utilizing study halls and office hours, she said, makes balancing time easier. Outside of academics, Moffitt’s advice on getting involved in the Prep community starts with stepping outside of your comfort zone. She emphasized that getting involved not only helps you make friends and connections but also enhances your overall school experience. Coming from a small school, she said, “branching out even by saying hi to people in the hallways or joining clubs” was how she became more involved. She has learned that the most important thing is to “find people you enjoy being around and encourage you,” and all else will fall into place.

Downer, who will be playing lacrosse for Colorado University next year, has found that high expectations and balance have helped him succeed both academically and athletically.  When asked how he finds motivation for school and sports, he said, “My parents have always had high expectations for me, which kept me going. A lot of the time, though, it was just the people around me.” His end goal was to pursue lacrosse in college, a sport which he kept sustain enthusiasm for throughout high school. This goal was difficult to fulfill as he was, “weighed down by how much work it is to get recruited and which often leads to burnout.” His advice to students in order to avoid burnout is to, “Play other sports and find other hobbies so that the sport you enjoy most doesn’t get dull. Also, I’ve found that I get better at lacrosse when I take a break for a while and play something like football.” When reflecting on his high school experience, he regrets never playing basketball. He did, however, join Prep’s dance team, Pulse, and described it as a “really fun and eye-opening experience.” When asked what his most valuable advice is for underclassmen, he said, “If you have a desire to do something, do it.”

Each senior proves that by continuing to seek balance and prioritizing your needs, any goal, from building connections to continuing athletic endeavors, is achievable. Although high school is filled with pressures, the class of 2024 recommends all students to never be afraid to try something new because the outcome is what makes for a successful high school experience. As Senior Brock Tuminello stated, “Don’t limit yourself or put yourself in one “box.” Explore your different skills and talents and identify what you can bring to the table in the many aspects of the Prep Community.”