Dear Lil Freshies (Pt. 2)

     So, now that you have been acquainted with the WMHS halls and have become numb to the anxieties of High School, I want to tell you a little bit about getting involved. When it comes to clubs and extracurriculars, GET INVOLVED. After school activities are a great way to meet new people and try new things out you didn't know you'd end up loving. The great thing about clubs is that you can do as many as you want, so I suggest you try something new! Step out of your comfort zone in High School, because it'll definitely be worth it.
     When I signed up for my first season of running in High School, I remember laughing as I filled out my Family id. I didn't know how to train for it, and my asthma was poorly controlled which made it even harder. I was never your athlete protégé, in fact XC was my first ever sport. The first week of practice hurt more than I can ever put into words, but the love and encouragement I had from my team and the passion and dedication I learned my first XC season carried with me into not only indoor and outdoor track season, but also my entire Freshman year. Without that "yolo" moment of signing up for XC, something I had no idea I'd end up obsessed with, I wouldn't have grown this year as much as I have. That is why I suggest joining a sport or club that catches your eye. I want you to experience what I have through running and sports. Trust me, doing after school activities is worth it- I met over half of my friends through track, and I've learned how to discipline myself and get my work done off the track and the trails.
     One more thing: don't be afraid of failing. I've said this one thousand times before, but nobody will judge you if you join math team and get a lot of problems wrong. Nobody will judge you if you get 30:00 for your home course pb in XC when most sub 25:00. Follow your passion for you, and if you don't know what that passion is- go find it. There's a quote I love that I'd like to share with you, "If it makes you nervous, you should go for it." So go for it, and enjoy your Freshman year. Make it worthwhile.