Recently, many of the Senior class of 2023 who have taken the SHSAT and applied for Specialized High Schools, received their High School decisions. Prior to becoming a teacher I had to pass a certification exam, so I can understand the pressure 8th grade students experienced, as well as the anxious feeling as they awaited the results. A few students received pleasant news, while others were left feeling disappointed for falling short. No matter the result, know that your family/caregivers and teachers are very proud of your efforts. It takes a brave person to take on a challenge.
For those who have found favorable responses, you should be proud. The feelings quickly dissipate, and the next challenge to accomplish will be at hand shortly. To the heartbroken, it is okay to feel sad, but the feelings will pass. It is also okay to feel disappointed, you all put in so much effort and things should have turned out better. Please know that life is a little bit of pain and plenty of hurdles but also a journey full of joy.
Whatever decision you were handed, get ready to set a new goal. Soon your next step is applying for College. This decision will directly affect your future. Right now, find out what it takes to accomplish your true aspirations and then do everything possible on a daily basis to ensure you put your best foot forward.
If you failed once, twice, three times or many times, do not worry, it is the effort which leads to your ultimate goal that matters. I forget who said this quote, but when I am met with inevitable failure (because even as an adult, we are all faced with some sort of failure) I always re-read these words “Legends are not defined by their success, they are defined by how they bounce back from their failure.” This quote echoes the theme that people will ultimately be successful if they learn from their failures. Michael Jordan was cut from his high school basketball team, but did Michael Jordan quit after his failure? No, he is literally the epitome of a legend and he became one of the greatest basketball players to ever play the game.
As the class of 2023 embarks on their next chapter in life, my best advice is to be a legend. You will fail, but do not give up. Find out what it takes to succeed, ask for help, trust the process to keep on going until you attain your goal. Everyone believes in you, and you should believe in yourself.