When people talk about relationships in high school, the focus is almost always on dating. But for many of us, relationships are much bigger than that and honestly, much more important.
From my own experience, the relationships that have mattered most to me are my friendships. Since the beginning of high school, the friends I’ve made have had a huge positive impact on my life. They’ve been there during stressful times, pushed me to do better, and made moments more enjoyable. Whether it’s studying together, talking through problems, or just laughing about something random, those connections have helped me get through high school in ways I didn’t expect.
At the same time, friendships aren’t always perfect. There are misunderstandings, disagreements, and moments where people drift apart. However, those experiences also teach important lessons; how to communicate and how to grow. Unlike what we see on social media, real relationships take effort, patience, and honesty. This matters because the people we surround ourselves with can influence our mindset and even our future goals. Positive friendships can motivate us and make school feel less overwhelming, while unhealthy ones can do the opposite.
I think schools like Hoover should recognize how important relationships are. We spend so much time learning academic subjects, but not enough time learning how to build and maintain strong, healthy connections with others. Even simple conversations or activities focused on communication and support could help students navigate these challenges.
At the end of the day, relationships are not just about dating, they’re about the people who shape us. For me, my friends have been one of the most important parts of my high school experience, and their impact will stay with me long after graduation.
