My soon-to-be reality: high school.
A huge building, tons of courses, surrounded by big kids that really look more like adults, getting lost, a locker that won't open, frightening, more freedom, fun, being the smallest in the school. Those things are only a few of the many thoughts that crowd my head when I think of Grade 8.
When I contemplate how little time I actually have now until I step into this brand new world, it worries me but also fills me with excitement.
My greatest concern has to be negotiating my way around Rockridge secondary. True, it is the smallest of the three high schools in West Vancouver, but still, it is daunting. I guess the main thing about the size is that I worry about getting lost and ending up in the wrong class, which would be very embarrassing. Also, making the change from elementary school where there are only about 300 students ranging from Kindergarten to Grade 7, to high school where there are at least 900, is, let's just say, nerve wracking. Making it even more frightening is the fact that I will be changing from being one of the leaders and oldest students in the school to being one of the smallest and youngest.
On the other hand, thinking about going to high school next year does fill me with excitement. From what I have seen so far, it looks like a ton of fun. There are so many different opportunities and classes that we have never experienced in elementary school. I mean, seriously, look at all of those courses that we will be taking: woodwork, textiles, science, video production. The possibilities to choose from seem endless, and that list does not even include the numerous clubs that are available for us to join. In addition, I am definitely looking forward to meeting new people and to all of the friends that I will make. I have to say that about one-third of me is nervous about high school, while the other two-thirds of me are really looking forward to entering Grade 8. After all, life is just a journey; it is full of challenges and hard work, which also brings along fun and excitement.
Cate Jardine was a Grade 7 West Bay elementary student when she wrote this for the North Shore News at the end of the school year in June. She is now heading into high school in September.
