Students coming from different middle schools have the opportunity to see Sequoia High School for a day through shadowing from a student perspective, and are able to take a look into what may be their future lives.

 The program accepts students from any middle school that are considering attending Sequoia. 

“We know that students who sign up for the shadowing program span a wide range of commitment levels to Sequoia,” shadow coordinator Corey Uhalde said “Some of them are pretty confident that they’ll be here and some might still be considering their options, so we try to structure the program to appeal to everyone.” Students also have the opportunity to shadow at other schools they are interested in and are considering attending. This is the case with eighth grader Abby Hurley who shadowed at Sequoia, as well as Notre Dame High School Belmont, and was able to compare her experiences at both schools. 

“I liked it here better than other schools because other schools were kind of boring but I enjoyed the classes more here,” Hurley said.

Shadowing at multiple schools gives students the opportunity to see how differences in scheduling and student life would affect them in the future. Not only does shadowing give a glimpse into high school life, but it can also ease nerves. Coming from small middle schools and having heard rumors of the amount of work that may come with the transition to high school can leave eighth graders with expectations of an overwhelming and unbalanced daily schedule. After getting an impression for themselves, they are able to set more realistic expectations. 

“It kind of proved that [high school] is a bit more laid back than I initially thought,” shadow Oliver Sarmiento said.

While the program itself can help shadows feel more comfortable by exposing students to the high school environment, a welcoming personality from the shadow host is also crucial to help ensure shadows.

“It’s important in the beginning, to be super friendly with them so you can establish a relationship so they’re not scared of you all day. I normally get to know them in the beginning, and at break I love to show them off and introduce them to all my friends,“ junior shadow host and coordinator Brooke Elgaaen said. 

While getting an insight into the academics, scheduling, and overall setup of Sequoia is helpful to some, it can be said that half a day at school cannot give a complete preview of what is to be expected. 

“I wish Shadows got a chance to experience some of the non-classroom stuff that happens at a high school. I think that going to sporting events, performing arts productions, or hanging out in the quad at lunch are things that really make a high school experience. We’re just limited by time and the structure of the day and not able to offer that to our shadows.” Uhalde said.