By: Mae Grisenthwaite

As spring fades and summer begins, students everywhere start adjusting to a completely different pace of life.

This time of year is valuable not only for students, but for teachers as well, providing an opportunity to decompress after a long school year.

 “It feels great after a long school year to have a break,” sophomore Emma Davis said.

Not only does this break from school offer alone time, but also time for students to work, go to camps or visit new places.

“It’s nice to be able to work full time or go to camp,” Davis said

For many students, summer also provides relief from the academic pressures that come with the school year.

“I love summer because I don’t have to stress over getting good grades,” sophomore Gabriela Berlingo said.

Sophomore Gaby Berlingo

Photo by: Mae Grisenthwaite

Beyond offering a break from school-related stress, summer gives some students an opportunity to focus on personal growth and self-care.

“I dedicate my summer to bettering myself and to give myself a break before returning to school,” Berlingo said.

However, along with the benefit that summer break brings, the transition can also be challenging for some people.

“Sometimes not having a routine bothers me, but having a job helps me stay motivated,” Davis said.

Sophomore Emma Davis

Photo by: Mae Grisenthwaite

Many people rely on the routine and structure that school provides, from set schedules and deadlines to regular social interactions.

“The schedule is some peoples’ security,” Psychology teacher Mrs. Beth Simone said. “So sometimes when people are set off their schedule or don’t know what they are doing next, that can throw them off and can have a negative effect on their mood.”

Many people do not realize how much the activities they participate in can affect their mental health, whether it’s sports, clubs, work or spending time just outside.

“When we go into summer where the days are longer and there is more sunlight, it can affect our mood and emotions positively,” Mrs. Simone said

Mrs. Simone

Photo by: Mae Grisenthwaite

Although increased sunlight can boost mood, each person’s experience with summer is unique.

“Summer is different for everyone because humans are so complex,” Simone said. “The change of routines could be good or bad depending completely on the person.”