THE ECHO

by Cara Meissner

Rated from worst to best, on a scale of ‘what just happened??’ all the way to, “ah I miss it kind of…”

4. Sophomore Year

If you knew me on August 1^st, 2023, then you are well aware as to why I am ranking sophomore year at the lowest of low. Not only was the year low, but so was where I sat, at the bottom of the stairs. On the first Monday of the school year, I tumbled down a single step and caused a trimalleolar fracture in my right ankle. With a month of bedrest and heavy pain drugs, I never get to create a concrete base for this year of school.

Although, there were a few highlights…

• Starting newspaper
• Reading Lord of the Flies
•  Learning to walk again

3. Freshman Year

I cannot remember much of freshmen year, probably for good reason. Only year I got straight As for a semester (I am pretty sure). Coming into high school meant coming into a new space and new people I had never interacted with before. It wasn’t awful, but it doesn’t deserve top 2.

Possible? Highlights

• Made a truce with the thrifting gods
• Got a big girl job

2. Senior Year

It has been nothing short of ups and downs. From disappointments to exciting news, it has been a decent ending to a decent high school experience. People have come and gone over the course of these least four years for all sorts of reasons and reactions. At least I’m graduating.

Highlights

• Getting into my dream school and degree.
• Never having to take an AP test again.
• Figuring out who I am for the next four years.
• Getting to be on yearbook staff both semesters.

1. Junior Year

Yes, the classes were as difficult as everyone makes it out to be. It was my first year with college level classes, VU American History was definitely worth it. But despite the stress and workload, I was able to find time to enjoy myself, find a new job that I didn’t despise going to.

Highlights

• My little sister and I were in the same school for the first time since fourth grade.
• I didn’t fall down the stairs anymore.

Overall, the rating system is flawed, skewed, and probably changes every month depending on what I remember. But, high school was such an interesting turning point of my life that is all thanks to Avon.