Moving: The Entire Experience

One of the hardest things for a young person to deal with in this day and age is moving while in high school. Starting all over in a new place can be extremely difficult, especially with the added pressure of making commitments and maintaining good grades. To learn more about the emotions surrounding a move, I spoke with Mehek, a sophomore at Foothill High School. She told me about both the joy and sadness she experienced while moving to Pleasanton from Union City. The short distance between the cities was still a big change for Mehek.

1. What was your initial response when you learned that you were moving?
This move was totally out of the blue. I was not expecting to hear this news. At first, I thought my parents were kidding. But after a while, I realized they were serious. I loved my old school, city, and friends with all my heart. At the moment, all I could do was cry. It was hard for me to accept the fact that I had to leave my old life behind.

2. What was the biggest challenge you faced in a new school?
The hardest challenge for me was adjusting to the lifestyle of this school. I had been in my old school district since kindergarten, so I had really adapted to the way their schools functioned. Foothill is definitely very different from my old district. At Foothill, I am receiving a lot more homework and learning the curriculum using common core, which wasn’t used at my old school, James Logan. However, I am slowly adjusting to Foothill. I would definitely say I am doing a lot better now than I was at the beginning of the year.

3. What was the biggest benefit of moving?
The biggest benefit for me has been living in such a nice location. I love the variety of places in Pleasanton. Never before have I been so close to so many amazing restaurants. Stoneridge Mall is nice to live moments away from as well. The trees and nature in Pleasanton are beautiful.

4. Would you change anything about your experience?
Honestly, the journey has been tough, but I would not change the experience. I’ve learned to adapt to a new pace and make new friends, which has definitely built my confidence when meeting new people.

5. How have you changed since moving?
As mentioned earlier, I am more confident now when I talk to new people. I also think that I am much more organized because moving meant organizing our entire house. The process inspired me to be more organized in several areas of my life including schoolwork.

Thanks again to Mehek for sharing your experience!