Melbourne High

As course selection for next school year began this spring, sophomores Marina Gast and Olivia Eagle finalized their junior-year schedules with college preparation in mind. Counselors encouraged students to carefully review graduation requirements and consider honors or Advanced Placement courses before submitting requests. Both Gast and Eagle said they wanted to challenge themselves academically while still maintaining balance. Their decisions reflected the increasing pressure junior year carries in the college admissions process.

Marina Gast said she began thinking seriously about her schedule once counselors reviewed graduation expectations. “Junior year is really important for preparing for college,” Gast said. She explained that she considered honors and AP-level classes that aligned with her strengths and long-term goals. “My guidance counselor and teachers helped a lot, especially by explaining the workload,” she said. Gast added that students should not choose classes simply because their friends are taking them, advising, “Choose what fits your goals and what you can handle.”

Eagle also approached scheduling with focus and determination after course selection was announced. “It’s important because junior year is a big part of college admissions,” Eagle said. She planned to enroll in several advanced courses that would challenge her while matching her academic interests. “My guidance counselor has been the most helpful,” Eagle said, noting that the additional guidance gave her confidence in her decisions. To reduce stress, she emphasized balance, explaining, “I try to pick classes that are both interesting and manageable.”

Both students said careful planning helped them feel more prepared for the responsibilities that come with upperclassman years. By reviewing requirements early and seeking advice from teachers and counselors, Gast and Eagle made informed decisions about their academic paths. Their experiences highlighted how thoughtful course selection can support both college readiness and personal growth. As junior year approached, both students appeared ready to take on new academic challenges.

Caption:

Planning Ahead: Olivia Eagle, a sophomore, completes her junior-year course selection sheet during lunch in the high school cafeteria. As students prepared for next year’s schedules this week, Eagle carefully reviewed her options before submitting her selections. “I wanted to challenge myself, but also make sure I could handle the workload,” she said. Eagle explained that she had started thinking about her schedule after counselors discussed graduation requirements and said she wanted to balance advanced classes with her personal interests. Photo By Chloe Strong