By Carly Ranilla – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law Class of 2024 graduate Lily Greenwood decided a gap year would benefit her before submitting any applications to attend Cosmetology school.

Greenwood recognized her experience in high school didn’t leave her with much motivation to continue schooling right away, so she reconsidered her options and thought about what would be healthiest for her.

“I never wanted to go to school,” Greenwood said. “It was always very stressful for me and I felt like I lost interest in a lot of things I used to be super passionate about. I didn’t really have anything to help me through school, but compared to working I feel as if there’s a lot less pressure and worry on me.”

Greenwood credited her friends for helping her through high school.

“I had a rough time in high school, but when I was at my lowest I was able to meet one of my closest friends that still is so important to my life now,” Greenwood said. “Without school, who knows if or even when we’d ever meet.”

Greenwood said that her mental health has improved significantly since graduation, and she feels that a working environment is the place to be before further committing to Cosmetology school.

“I work around eight hours everyday, Monday through Friday,” Greenwood said. “Even though it’s a lot, I find it way a lot more peaceful compared to my schedule from high school.”

Her favorite part of being a high school graduate was her opportunity for increasing independence, personal growth, and the sense of accomplishment.

“Completing high school is a major accomplishment for anyone to experience, and leaves a really big sense of pride and confidence to feel good about,” Greenwood said.

Greenwood had some advice for students who might be experiencing a rough patch in their time at Jonathan Law, or any high school students in general.

“I know it can be hard, but staying positive and keeping an open mind about your future is important,” Greenwood said. “High school doesn’t last forever and remember that it’s okay to ask for help and take care of yourself.”

Greenwood said that the switch from high school to whatever is next is not as scary as some might think.

“At first I was nervous that I wouldn’t know what to do after graduation,” Greenwood said. “But there are plenty of opportunities and once you get going, you’ll feel a wave of relief and excitement for what’s next.”