The summer is drawing to a close, and, with a new school year lurking just around the corner, students are rushing to finish their summer work, buy fresh new school supplies, and fill their closets with the cute new outfits of the 2012-2013 school year. Despite the usual dread of school, I can’t help feeling excited about all the hubbub of a new year.  I have all my new binders, pens, and pencils and with all my supplies in pristine condition, I feel that this year is a brand new year.  The start of school brings new resolutions, a new look, and a whole new me.

I sent my older sister off to college last week, and I was more excited than sad, because half of me was looking forward to the new experience.  I almost felt like I was going with her, and was thrilled at the thought of a new place, a way to reinvent myself, and to prove to myself that I could organize my belongings and stay on top of my school work.  Once we left, and I realized that I wasn’t going to college, I decided that I could do all of those things at home, too. I’ve picked out all my new back-to-school clothes, cut my hair, and organized my supplies so that I can make new promises to myself.  This year, I can do everything right.

Of course, the start of school also brings back old memories, and reunites friends that lost touch over the summer.  I can’t wait for school, because of all the things that come with it.  Comparing schedules and teachers on the first day of school, and hugging and catching up with friends brings an excited buzz to the town that I can’t help but enjoy.  Getting back into the familiar school routine and being able to see my friends every day is something that I am ready for.  I am no longer nervous about intimidating teachers, overwhelming workloads, or early wake-up calls.  Now, with a fresh perspective on school, I am ready and raring to go.

Welcome, 10th grade and the 2012-2013 school year!