A graduate of the Class of 2023, Natalie Sole gave us a look into her life since graduating. Currently, Sole is studying art at Stockton University.
What are your plans after high school?
As a high schooler thinking about my future my plans were to own an antique store, since I like to collect trinkets and vintage items, but also to be an artist. As a college student my goals have changed a bit because I want to think realistically on what would help support me and my family, when I have one. I’m an art major at Stockton university and I want to be a graphic design artist.
Things you’ve been doing after high school.
The things I’ve been doing after high school have been creating my art portfolio of still life drawings, I’ve socialized myself more and made more friends, and I have also been focusing on my mental health. I’m starting to realize what is most important in life and putting those morals and ideals first as it’s important now more than ever to be a responsible adult, because I’m building my own future, the path isn’t laid out for me.
Things you miss about high school.
I really miss from high school Mr. Luby’s woodshop class. Because I was one of the only girls in the class and showed interest in the projects, he was always happy and willing to show me how each project worked and gave me options on how to add better detail to my wood pieces. I also miss playing volleyball in gym with my friends.
If you could change something about high school, what would you change?
If I could change something about high school I would say not worry as much about what other people think of me. I let other people’s define who I was for a long time and I felt very judged. It’s hard to put yourself out there when you’re afraid of judgement. I wish I did more clubs with my time also, though I did play tennis all four years of high school and that helped me create a sense of community.
One piece of advice for new students?
One piece of advice I have for new students is that high school does not define you or the rest of what you do with your life. High school is an important time for grown and learning new things but you shouldn’t let your high school experience be the be all end all for how you live the rest of your life. It’s best to be open minded and know that high school is just the beginning!