Walking into Doherty High School as a sophomore is like stepping into a pressure cooker. The air is tense, and students’ tired eyes and half-hearted glances reflect the stress of balancing school, future plans, and personal lives. With Jenkins Middle Schoolers now sharing the same hallways due to their school being deemed unsafe, the campus feels more crowded than ever. Some areas are even completely off-limits to high schoolers, making it harder to find breathing room.
“It’s very loud,” says Kyle, a fellow sophomore, when asked about the school atmosphere. And he’s right. Between the echo of voices in the halls and the rush of students squeezing through the doorways, the noise can be overwhelming. It makes getting through the day feel like a battle, but somehow, we all manage.
My day starts early at 6:45 AM. I drag myself out of bed, get ready, and grab an energy drink-a non-negotiable part of my morning routine. Without it, I can’t function properly, especially knowing I have hours of classes ahead. I usually pair it with some protein to fuel my body, knowing I’ll need it to stay sharp through school and the gym later.
Once classes begin, I feel the weight of being an Odyssey Early College transfer student. Being thrown into mixed-grade classes I didn’t even choose was a rough transition. Most of my classes are filled with upperclassmen or even freshmen, making it hard to find my place. The teachers expect me to know material from the previous semester, which is frustrating since I missed out on it entirely. Catching up meant putting in extra effort, seeking help, and learning to adapt. It was a harsh reality check that forced me to push myself.
By the time lunch rolls around, I’m more than ready for a break. At Doherty, sophomores and above have the freedom to go off campus, and honestly, it’s one of the best perks. The variety of spots nearby is a huge bonus… Little Caesars, Maverick’s, Marco’s Pizza, Sonic, and Albert Tacos are popular choices. Kyle William’s go-to? “Albert Tacos because their Carne Asada Fries can be split between friends.” For me, lunch is more than just food- it’s the only real chance to relax and socialize with friends before diving back into the school grind.
After school, I head straight to the gym, which is my escape from school stress. I usually go 4-5 days a week, focusing on strength training. The gym gives me a place to release built-up emotion and push my physical limits. “School is a crucial escape from stress for me,” I tell myself. My current PR for dumbbell chest press is 70 lbs per hand. It’s not anything crazy for a 16-year-old, but I’m constantly working to get stronger and better myself.
Once I’m done lifting, my dad takes me back to my apartment and goes to his night shift job in Denver, where I basically live on my own. With that freedom comes responsibility. I make my own dinner, clean the house, do laundry, and take care of my cat. It feels like a big step up from living with others, but I appreciate the independence. It’s not always easy though. Managing chores, homework, and taking care of myself can be overwhelming at times.
If I could give advice to incoming freshmen, it would be this: Don’t underestimate Doherty. It’s a big school, and it can swallow you up if you’re not careful. “Be involved with the school activities,” Kyle Williams recommends. I agree- it’s the best way to feel connected and make high school less of a drag. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to remind teachers how to do their job. Sometimes, they need a little push too.
At the end of the day, being a sophomore at Doherty is a balancing act. Between packed hallways, tough classes, and personal goals, every day is a grind. But with good friends, a solid escape, and a drive to improve, it’s all worth it.
