Areeb Hasan

As a freshman, grades were senior Areeb Hasan’s top priority. This caused him to spend less time with friends and not get involved in extracurricular activities.

“I have become a lot more relaxed when it comes to grades and school work. Not to say that I am neglectful or lazy, it’s more like I am not as anxious about grades and school work as I was before,” Hasan said.

Hasan has since participated in the debate team and recently got into biking over quarantine. When Hasan was a sophomore in debate, the seniors’ leadership inspired him.

“My high school experience made me a more laid back person. You realize that worrying profusely about things doesn’t really help, and isn’t worth anything,” Hasan said. “[I’d tell my freshman self that] there is no need to be anxious. Everything will be fine, and you’ll get through freshman year easily. I don’t want to give the impression that being lazy is okay, but I do stress that your time during this period is worth more than any grade that you want.”