As the year progresses, the workload grows and the assignments continue to get more challenging. Terms three and four have ranked among the hardest of the year, sneaking in as much work as possible before students can escape for April break. As kids navigate the increasing hours of homework combined with the beginnings of spring sports, underclassmen in Hingham High struggle under the never-ending stack of papers on desks.
Luckily, the seniors at Hingham are glad to share some of their wisdom to navigate stressful times like these. The first of these being 2025-26 field hockey and lacrosse co-captain, Ella O’Neill. She shared, “The best thing you can do is stay organized and ask for help when you need it.” Ella’s words affirm that the little things, down to keeping papers in the correct folders, can make all the impact while battling through the time of tests and tragedy.
Her captainship really shined through when she shared, “Teachers and upperclassmen are here to support you.” It is easy to forget that one does not have to rely solely on themselves. Many underclassmen see swimming their way out of treacherous conditions to be a means of proving themselves. However, the community at Hingham is too strong to ignore the resources and support meant for academically-trying times.
Ella’s co-captain in both lacrosse and field hockey, Emily Kiernan, used her experience to chime in on the subject. Also being co-captain of the ski team, Emily knows the position of the student to athlete balance well. With this in mind, Emily shared, “I would say the best advice I have ever gotten was to never be afraid to stay after with teachers.” She elaborated on the role of the teachers at the high school, and how, “they really are there to make sure students succeed and are always willing to help.”
Continuing to share her tips and tricks, Emily noted the importance of having a calm area to do work, emphasizing how the environment can help you succeed. Aside from school work, Emily mentions one other thing – prioritizing yourself. She stated, “School work and sports can be overwhelming, so it is important that you make the time to just hang out or spend time with friends and family.”
The last to share insight was senior Secretary and President of the drama club, Alec Whitmore, who presented more ideas for freshmen to manage the days where the agenda page never ceases. He remarked, “If I had one piece of advice to give to an underclassman, it would be to always be open to having a conversation with your teachers.” While agreeing with Emily’s previous points, Alec also shared that when struggling in classes, it is best to just talk with your teacher, breaking down and making plans on how to proceed in a beneficial way.
Emphasizing that student to teacher relationship that is possible, Alec closed with, “Most, if not all, of the teachers in this building are willing to meet you where you are and get you back on track, they just need to see that you want it as much as they do.”
While courses may increase in rigor and grading becomes harsher than ever before, the seniors above demonstrated all the ways that have led them to success from term to term. Strategies may vary from student to student, however support from upperclassmen and staff never wavers.
