The past few years have been nothing but odd, not only for the students of DHS but students across the globe. The class of 22′ left DHS wearing masks, the Class of 23′ didn’t get to finish their freshman year, while 24′ barely even had a freshman year. This year at DHS is finally starting to feel normal for many students as the COVID guidelines begin to get looser. This year’s freshmen are the first high school class in 3 years to finally have a normal DHS experience. Not only that but they are the biggest freshman class that has ever entered DHS. I interviewed Sofia Suarez, a freshman here at DHS and asked them about their opinions on the school. 

Mario Fuentes: Alright, hello, Im Mario Fuentes, a junior here at Danbury High School taking journalism doing an interview with…

Sofia Suarez: Sofia Suarez a freshman here at DHS

Mario Fuentes: What middle school are you coming from? 

 Sofia Suarez: Westside Middle school 

MF: how would you compare middle school workload to the workload here in high school? 

SS: So far I feel like it’s not that much since it’s only the 3rd week though I feel that homework is now starting to come in. It’s getting more difficult as time goes on but it’s not that big of a difference. 

MF: Are you taking honors classes? 

SS: Yes all honors 

MF: Another huge thing that could help with the workload is study hall which I believe is the period were in right now 

SS: Yes study hall helps with the workload

MF: So DHS being the biggest school in Connecticut and bringing people from a lot of different places, what do you think about the immense amount of people all around you, especially with the halls and getting from class to class or trying to get food at lunch? 

SS: The hallways are not that bad until I get to lunch because everyone from different grades come from different places into a not so big cafeteria. The hallways are not that bad though since most people are going in the same direction and if not then they usually keep to their side in the hallways. Though it could get crowded and I do think there should be more space, it’s fine. You get to your classes eventually.

MF: Yeah I could definitely see how the flow of people might be better since G building is mostly freshman but it usually gets more crowded once you get to sophomore year. 

SS: I actually believe that Westside felt more crowded since it was such a small school 

MF: Keeping the theme of the population of the high school, what does it feel to be part of such a big community unlike other high schools where their population might not be as big. Especially since Westside is such a small school where everyone knows each other compared to here where you see new faces everyday.

SS: I think it is very interesting because I like meeting new people, I like talking to new people. When I see people of different cultures, different ideas, different opinions, I think it’s really cool compared to how Westside was very small. I like it a lot.

MF: I could definitely see how people who like to meet new people can like it here since it is so diverse that you can find anyone with similar interests or hobbies. 

MF: What do you miss about middle school and what do you not miss?

SS: I miss the people definitely, since we’re all so spread out now, I’m forced to make new friends and meet new people. Though I do really like to meet new people, I do miss the old people I used to see everyday.

MF: What do you not miss? 

SS: The crowded hallways definitely. 

MF: What are some strengths that you have that you want to pursue in high school like sports, academics, etc… 

SS: I’m very interested in soccer so I joined the freshman soccer team. We’re all learning together and starting to get the hang of things. Though I also want to take interest in sports during the other seasons. 

MF: What are some weaknesses you want to improve on in high school? 

SS: Algebra definitely 

MF: Is there anything you would change about DHS? 

SS: Definitely the AC since it gets really hot at times. I would prefer if the cafeteria was a bit larger as well. Also more field space for soccer since we play in a bit of a small corner though it’s manageable. 

MF: Any final thoughts? 

SS: I believe that high school is difficult at first but you get used to it quickly. 

MF: Alright thank you so much for the interview 

SS: Of course, Thank you!