As I walk into a classroom, panic arises in my chest as I see a colossal amount of unfamiliar people.
I immediately regret my decision of trying something new despite being immersed in a new environment for only a couple of seconds. My comfort zone consists of my bedroom’s four walls surrounding me and the soft music playing late at night, the opposite of a clamorous room full of people.
My slight-fear of being submerged in a room with more people than I can count makes stepping out of my comfort zone easier said than done.
Despite this feeling, I eventually learned that the unknown is not quite as bad as I’d pictured it in my mind.
Last year, I decided to join the HOSA Future Health Professionals to fulfill my interest in medicine and health science. At first, I was hesitant to join. But after a year of getting familiar with the program, HOSA became a key part of my extracurriculars.
I enjoyed competing in health science events and presenting my research to an audience of judges. During the competitions, I was able to practice professional speaking, getting a taste of what real medical figures do on a daily basis. Overall, joining HOSA provided me with new knowledge of the healthcare industry, helping me build on my experience in the field.
I applied this open mindedness to other activities in my life, such as The Sidekick newspaper. Although I initially joined the program to satisfy my friend’s wishes, I eventually took advantage of my interest in writing, publishing a variety of stories in my first year. The program became a part of my daily life as I dedicated hours of work into The Sidekick. I was also able to form connections with other members, proving to myself how new experiences can form new friendships.
To ease the process of joining unfamiliar programs, students at Coppell High School can start by focusing on their interests to develop an idea of what programs to join.
Coppell High School has a variety of different clubs and organizations, ranging from the academic decathlon to the culinary club, expanding the options available for students.
For students who do not relate with any of the existing clubs, they are welcome to form their own clubs. This will allow other students with the same interests to participate, forming a new unity within the community.
These new organizations will facilitate new beginnings and interests students will keep throughout their entire high school career. Ultimately, succeeding in trying new things gives students the satisfaction of being open to the unknown.
Facing the unfamiliar might seem mortifying, but the outcome isn’t nearly as bad as one might expect.
Follow @katiegpark and @CHSCampusNews on X.
