Opinion by ElliePeter

In hindsight, the first day of school is a day looked at with dread. Summer is over, winter is coming, and homework is about to pile on. It’s the day everyone wishes was pushed back by a month or two. 

Even though it seems like it’s the worst day of the year, the first day is really not that bad. Since it’s usually a half day, the first day of the school year is just a trial run to find your classes, meet your teachers and reunite with your friends you didn’t see over the summer. 

For freshmen, the first day, or even the first few days, is definitely nerve racking. Walking through the doors in a Marian uniform, seeing the quad, and finding your classes can all be anxiety provoking. I remember how stressed I was just getting my iPad set up, and I was almost late to my first choir class because I couldn’t find the PAC. Thankfully, the upperclassman proved helpful and sent me on my way. 

The true beginning of a freshman’s first few days is when the upperclassmen show up. From personal experience, it made me feel like an official high schooler. The transition was definitely easier than I expected, especially because everyone was so willing to help me find my classes. 

First days don’t have to be something to worry about anymore. Sophomore and junior year start off with confidence, especially since you know how to get around Marian. You know the teachers, at least by name. And most importantly, you know where the PAC is. You’ve done this before.

However, now being a senior, I couldn’t help but be nervous for the first day again. Knowing it’s my last year at Marian, as well as my last year with my best friends and entire class, I wouldn’t mind the first day being later than it is. As we approached the first day of school, I wished I had taken more time to appreciate the less stressful first days of sophomore and junior year. 

Even though I was apprehensive about the first day, I was ready for the memories, laughter, and learning of the upcoming year. No matter how many times you’ve walked through the front doors on the first day, the feeling stays the same. It’s always bittersweet.