Advice to the class of 2030, from the class of ‘26

The transition to high school can be stressful; it is also an opportunity to take some chances, find a passion and forge strong bonds.

Last May, as the class of 2026’s class officers reflected on their four years at Weston High School with the Observer, they also imparted some advice for the class of 2030.

The most important thing, the graduating seniors said, is to “put yourself out there,” and that includes taking new classes, joining clubs or sports teams and embedding yourself in the school community.

“Be open to challenging yourself and trying new things,” Class co-treasurer Margaret Liu said, noting “one of my biggest regrets is I didn’t join the newspaper club.” “[Joining the swim team] was a big part of my high school experience because as a freshman you don’t really know too much about the high school, but if you can make connections with the older upperclassmen, they can give you a lot of advice. That’s definitely something that every freshman should do.”

She said freshmen should challenge themselves in the classroom, too, because “it’s nice to see where your capabilities lie and where your potential lies.”

In the same vein, co-Treasurer Nicholas Polymeros said students need to have an open mind about themselves, too.

“Don’t take anything really too seriously, especially don’t take yourself too seriously because there’s so many people who worry way too much about what other people think of them,” Polymeros said. “If they ask a question in class, or anywhere really, they’ll hesitate because they don’t want people to think it’s a dumb question, but I feel like the dumbest question is the one you choose not to ask.”

JJ Cutter served as the student representative to the School Committee last year, a position that he said was fulfilling. He said it’s “important to get involved, especially early,” as it is not only a way to become a part of the community, but it’s a way to learn about the world.

“Run for student government. My role on the School Committee has been great. It’s interesting to see how everything operates, and it’s good to have civic participation,” Cutter said. “That’s very important to keep up and know what’s going on.”

While involving oneself is a great way to build community among students, Class President Chelian Subbiah said high school is an opportunity to create strong relationships with teachers. High school, he noted, is when the role of an educator shifts from more basic teaching and behavior monitoring to helping students nurture their passions and plan their futures.

“Find a way to connect with your teachers, talk to them as people…[Strong relationships with teachers] was really special to me and really helped me a lot throughout my four years.” Subbiah said. “When you’re a sophomore it seems like the biggest thing in the world when you get a B on your math test or whatever, but your teacher can give you perspective and provide something that a peer couldn’t.”