Victoria Zimenko
Staff Writer
Choosing classes isn’t only about graduation requirements; it is also your chance to explore something new, unexpected, and fun. While core subjects build the foundation, electives are where school can really come alive. Whether you’re interested in expressing yourself through art, experimenting in the kitchen, performing on stage, or even learning the basics of business, there’s likely an elective that matches your interests or helps you discover a new one.
Upperclassmen play a big role in helping students choose their electives. Many older students recommend classes they enjoyed and encourage others to step outside their comfort zones. Hearing advice from upperclassmen can make picking classes feel less overwhelming.
One elective that stands out to students is Photography. The class gives students the chance to be creative while also getting out of the classroom and exploring new spaces for inspiration.
“My favorite elective is photography and composition because it's very fun and flexible. Most assignments are creative and enjoyable, and we get to go around and outside of school for our projects,” sophomore Nova Shahswa said.
Another popular elective is Ceramics, where students can work with their hands and create something from scratch. Many enjoy the relaxing environment and the ability to turn their ideas into real pieces of art.
“My favorite elective that I took was Ceramics because I like getting to create unique, pretty, and fun things that I can share with my family,” junior Sarah Paul said.
AP Psychology is another elective that leaves a strong impression on students. The class dives into topics that many students don’t get to explore in other courses, from how memory works to why people behave the way they do. Instead of just memorizing facts, students learn about real-life concepts that connect to their everyday experiences.
“AP Psych was definitely my favorite because, firstly, you learned so much about really interesting topics that no other class really dives into. I felt very engaged and interested every day because what we learned was literally never boring at all. To learn about why your brain works the way it does and to learn the explanations for phenomena I would never know about otherwise really intrigued me,” senior Juliana Graziano said.
At the end of the day, electives are more than just extra classes on a schedule. They are opportunities to discover new interests, develop talents, and make lasting memories. Whether it’s capturing the perfect photo, shaping clay into something meaningful, or learning how the brain works, these courses allow students to explore subjects that truly excite them. With advice from upperclassmen and a willingness to try something new, choosing electives can become one of the most rewarding parts of the school year.