Addison Tidday
Staff Writer
With the school year officially at its halfway point, many seniors are pausing to take a breath—and a hard look at where they stand. Between college applications, scholarship deadlines, grades, and the pressure of figuring out life after graduation, this time of year feels like a checkpoint. Some seniors feel relieved after submitting applications, while others are stressed, uncertain, or still catching up. As graduation slowly comes into view, the halfway mark serves as a reminder that senior year isn’t just about endings, but about making sure we’re prepared for what comes next.
To better understand how seniors are feeling at this midpoint, we spoke with one senior who shared their thoughts on reaching the halfway mark of the school year.
Zara Matheson said,” I feel sad to leave my friends, but I am happy to move on to bigger and better things.”
She explains that even though she is sad, she looks forward to what comes next in her life and what it will give her. Looking back on their experience so far, the seniors also offered advice for younger students navigating high school.
Eva Kelly said, “To hang out and spend as much time with your friends as possible because the year flies by, so make the most of it.”
Eva shares advice about making sure spend your time wisely with your friends and family before you go to college. When asked to reflect on their progress this year, the seniors also spoke about whether they have achieved any of the dreams and goals they set for themselves. They discussed how some goals have already been met, while others have changed or are still in progress, showing how senior year has shaped their priorities and outlook.
Grayson Bonsick says, “Yes, they have. My goal for senior year was to get into Penn State and enjoy my last year of high school with my friends. I am committed to Penn State for fall 2026 and look forward to finishing the rest of the year.”
Overall, Bonsick shares what he accomplished and gives an example of what underclassmen can look forward to as they enter their senior year, hopefully getting into their dream schools like Grayson did. This senior check-up was to recognize where the Cumberland Valley class of 2026 stands and what underclassmen have to look forward to.