For this issue, we asked our writers to highlight some of our Makos’ opinions about returning back to school or staying online.

By Stefania Da Graca
Staff Writer

Starting in a new school, with new people, new teachers,  having the motivation and energy to do good on itself is not easy. However, the Class of 2024 has a unique challenge. Many of them are starting their high school career in the midst of a pandemic. 

Due to COVID-19, freshmen have to deal with new programs and online school without knowing the system. It has been difficult for most, but it has been even more challenging for our freshmen since many are having difficulty making friends, getting used to the school programs they had never seen before, and all through a device.

“I never imagined for my high school experience to start like this,”  Daniel Deaguiar said.  Deaguiar is a current 9th grader at MAST; His parents decided to stay online due to fear of the virus. Yet, Deaguiar is nonetheless devastated and dislikes the way his freshman year is going. It’s his first year at MAST and going to a new school online has been challenging to make new friends, contact teachers.

“I decided to come to Mast Academy for the swimming team and the good education program but I haven’t even had the chance to enjoy swimming since I’m not able to do this class from home, also I consider myself a really friendly guy and I haven’t even had the chance to make friends and feel comfortable in my new school due to this pandemic it’s really sad,” Deaguiar said

Just as much as other freshmen, Deaguiar just wants the pandemic to be over, make friends, and properly start his new life at MAST. 

“I understand why my parents chose online because I also want to stay healthy and not get sick but it’s not motivating to wake up every day to sit down in front of a computer for  hours,” Deaguiar said.

Hopefully, this is all over soon for our freshman to enjoy their first year like they should.