Redhawks returned to campus after summer break Wednesday, kicking off the 2025-26 school year.

For rising senior Laura Huang, the start of the school year presents one last opportunity to spend time with teachers and friends before leaving for college

“I feel pretty excited about the start of the school year, especially as a senior,” Huang said. “I’m really excited to spend one more year with my friends and teachers.”

Rising junior Charita Degulapet echoes Huang’s excitement, particularly excited about the opportunity to make new friends, but remains anxious about taking multiple APs

“I’m most looking forward to meeting new people and making new friends,” Degulapet said. “But, [I’m] also nervous because of the classes I’m taking. I’m least excited about all the work and studying I’ll have to do for my APs.”

But even in the face of a heavy courseload, Degulapet is excited to explore new avenues and opportunities in her junior year.

“I’m most excited to try new things and get a feel for what I’m thinking of pursuing in the future,” Degulapet said.

For Huang, the main point of concern stems from the looming college applications.

“I’m least excited about college applications for sure,” Huang said. “It’s going to take up a lot of my schedule and be pretty stressful, but it’ll be a good experience.”

Despite the challenge of college apps, Huang remains determined to enjoy her senior year.

“I’m most excited for early releases as a senior and especially the freedoms that we get,” Huang said. “I’m…looking forward to making memories in my classes and seeing my classmates, especially my swim team!”