As seniors gear up for their final year of high school, many encounter a fresh challenge: starting senior year at a new school. Typically, students transfer schools earlier in their high school years. So, why are some making the switch so close to graduation? Three of Miami Palmetto Senior High’s brand-new seniors answer the question with their unique motivations.
Arthy Perez moved from Broward County in hopes of accessing a more diverse set of academic opportunities. His family made the switch and decided to settle in Pinecrest, where Perez was put in the position to start researching and take an interest in his new beginnings.
“I really liked [MPSH’s] magnet program, the block scheduling is also pretty nice as well. My previous school did not offer these sorts of things, so I’m grateful I found Palmetto,” Perez said. “It’s a very different pace from [his old school], but the environment is chill – I like it.”
Perez has been adjusting as he becomes familiar with his workload. Since school has started, Perez has created bonds with his new teachers and is excited to see what this new change will do for him as he walks the stage in May.
His classmate, Nicole Jaramillo, also made the change to pursue opportunities that were not presented before. With several goals in mind, she aims to make her mark as a new student at MPSH, particularly by becoming actively involved in extracurricular activities that were unavailable to her at prior school.
“I like the academics overall, [MPSH] has a lot of clubs, has a lot more electives than any other school, has more language opportunities and I just liked the fact that there was no dress code if I’m being quite honest,” Jaramillo said.
However, transferring to a new school has not always been exactly smooth sailing for her.
“At first, it was kinda hard. I was not sure where anything was or who anyone was,” Jaramillo said. “Trying to balance all my classes, clubs and sports medicine is what is hardest to me right now.”
The idea of moving to another school can be frightening, but Jaramillo is innovating to the best of her abilities.
Although bombarded with numerous activities, Jaramillo has emphasized her love for the help provided amongst her counselors, teachers and sponsors. She has shown exceptional leadership qualities in her new environment despite brief adversity. Just in her first few weeks at school, Jaramillo has become Co-Treasurer of the Italian National Honor Society.
MPSH welcomes all and is a diverse home to many. Eduardo Dominguez, transferring from the Dominican Republic, has become the epitome of MPSH’s welcoming attitude. Coming to America for summer work, Dominguez has gained a sense of home in Miami as well as a familiarity with the English language. He decided to spend his senior year at MPSH, as he had family that attended in previous years.
Application season as a senior definitely comes as a difficult time for most. As MPSH students prepare for college applications, Dominguez admitted he is facing some challenges.
“College applications are what is hard for me as a new student,” Dominguez said.
Despite experiencing the universal college stress, Dominguez still keeps a positive outlook on his journey to graduation. He has made great relationships with faculty and has gained their insight on the best ways to go about his academic resume for colleges.
Dominguez made a note that he has gotten in contact with MPSH College Application Process advisor Linda Dwyer. He also has met with Luis Sanchez, his assigned counselor. Both trusted adults are very crucial in a senior’s guide to crossing the stage at the end of May.
“I’m pretty tight with Mrs. Dwyer right now, and Mr. Sanchez, my counselor, he is pretty nice,” Dominguez said.
As he adjusts his new environment, Dominguez has set a new goal to work toward: getting admitted to the best colleges possible. He is dedicated to being the best version he can be, while thriving in his new environment. Dominguez has also shared a few universities he plans to reach for with the help of his new resources.
“My top choices are University of Florida, Wake Forest University and University of Tampa,” Dominguez said.
As the school year progresses, these students will undoubtedly face new challenges and prevail in many. But with their shared experiences and supportive network, they are ready to embrace the opportunities that await them. Their stories prove that new beginnings can lead to exciting and fulfilling journeys, no matter how late into the year.
