As the new school year begins, students are setting their sights on academic goals, a new Online Learning System (OLS), and finding ways to connect with their classmates in an online environment. Whether it is seniors preparing for graduation, sophomores adjusting to new responsibilities, or juniors entering GWUOHS for the first time, each student brings a unique perspective on what it takes to succeed.
For many students, this year represents an opportunity to establish better academic habits and push themselves further. Senior Anna B. emphasizes the importance of steady progress during her hectic final year.
“My main goal is consistency — maintaining good grades, keeping up with deadlines, and avoiding overdue work,” she said.
With college essays, applications, and scholarships all competing for attention, Anna has developed strategies that served her well in previous years.
“I stayed organized, writing everything down and using daily to-do lists, which helped with my AP classes,” she said.
Sophomore Pamela D. is taking a similar approach while challenging herself with more rigorous coursework.
“Obviously, I want to get a passing grade, but I want to do more in certain classes,” she said. “I’m taking honors English this year, so I want to see if I can challenge myself to get an A+ in that class. I’ve never taken honors before, so that’s something new for me.”
Pamela has also refined her study methods, explaining that she is taking more notes this year with different notebooks for each subject. This system allows her to write more and organize her coursework more effectively.
For junior Maxim D., who is new to the school, academic goals extend beyond good grades to expanding his academic interests.
“I want to overcome my struggles, learn discipline, and better understand the concept of an international school,” he said. “I want to improve my literary skills, learn more about economics, and take more AP classes next year.”
Furthermore, GWUOHS transitioned its OLS from Desire2Learn (D2L) to Canvas this year. For Maxim, navigating the new platform has presented some issues.
“A big challenge is navigating the new platform. I’ve had trouble finding modules and even missed classes because things didn’t show up on my calendar,” he said.
Despite these challenges, he finds encouragement in the school’s flexibility, which allows him to adjust the time he spends on different subjects.
Beyond academics, students are actively seeking ways to build meaningful connections within the online learning environment. Anna recognizes the importance of maintaining social engagement alongside her studies.
“I forced myself to interact with people, join choir rehearsals, and stay socially active. That was one of my Journeys goals, to stay socially alive,” she said.
Students across all grade levels are demonstrating that online education requires intentional effort to build community, whether through clubs, informal interactions, or simply participating more in class.
Looking ahead to her final year, Anna plans to participate in clubs, seek leadership roles, and increase her interaction with fellow students.
Maxim is approaching social connection strategically, building on common interests as a foundation for long-lasting relationships.
“I plan to join clubs that interest me, so I can build a network of people with similar interests,” he said. “I’ve also started turning on my camera more often to connect with others.”
On the other hand, Pamela is utilizing informal social opportunities to engage more with students.
“This year, I was thinking of the student Discord we have, like engaging more. Since I think we’re having game night every week, I’m trying to see whenever I’m free if I can join, even if it’s just for a little while,” she said.
