Dear Gladiators,

Writing a farewell is in no way similar to saying goodbye. That is simply because farewell is not leaving, it is leaving something behind. During my time at New Hyde Park, I always found myself seeking advice from others. Unfortunately, the most common piece of advice I would ever hear would be to not “peak in high school.” While I understand the rationale behind the phrase, I would like to tell you all why it’s the worst advice you will ever hear.

To peak is defined as “to reach a highest point at a specified time.” However, in my experience, a peak occurs within a time frame, rather than at a point. You see, peaks happen every day in little ways we do not realize. From how fast you made it from your bed at home to your desk at school, to how well you studied for a test, peaks are a ubiquitous part of our natural high school lives.

So, what do I mean by “peak in high school?” Take it for everything it has to offer you. During my presidential term at New Hyde Park Memorial High School, I realized that the majority of our students associate a certain stigma with being involved in extracurricular activities. I am here to tell you that is a terrible outlook to have. We are more fortunate as students than we realize. New Hyde Park offers over ninety individual clubs, twenty five APs, as well as an abundance of CTE programs. Trust me, there is something you should be a part of. Peak your time spent involved in something you enjoy. Besides the obvious benefits included with joining an organization or taking an elective you enjoy, it teaches you the most important lesson you can learn in high school: how to manage your time.

For me, six hours in class has often felt longer than the past six years. Some day, you will all have been seniors and will understand the feeling of high school flying by. People tell you not to peak in high school because it is so short and so early in your life. However, if you peak in high school, the meaning changes. Hit your ceiling within a time period, rather than at a period of time. Once high school is over, a new ceiling appears, a new goal for your future. Reach your maximum potential within high school and what high school can offer you. Doing well here does not mean you won’t do well out there. This is just practice for the rest of your life. If you don’t have the desire to do your best or your most now, do you just expect it to come magically? You shouldn’t. That desire only comes from doing what interests you here. Take the time—while you have it—to learn something you don’t know. Peak your effort, your attitude, your drive. 

I have nothing but good faith in New Hyde Park’s student body. I truly believe we are the strongest, smartest, most spirited student body in our district. We earned that distinction by being involved in our school community. If there is one thing I ask of you all it is to continue to be involved, seek out involvement, and most importantly, peak in high school. 

Lastly, to New Hyde Park’s incoming co-presidents; to Ariana and Darsh, I wish you both the best in everything you do with these positions. Teamwork and accountability matter this upcoming year more than ever.

Yours,

Alexander Tomalski