Where do you see yourself five years from now? It’s a question everyone has pondered once in their life. Five years from now, these hallways will be a distant memory for students as their lives will be filled with other possibilities from college, careers, or unexpected paths that shape who they become but you can’t help but wonder: where will they all be in five years?
Some students have clear goals for their futures. Kaitlin Detzel (12) said she sees herself as a marine biologist, “Hopefully I’m a marine biologist somewhere by a beach. Maybe in Charleston?”
Others are still figuring out what they want. Brayden Beste (12th), had more of an impulsive input. “I see myself in five years either being a millionaire or homeless,” Beste said.
Though Beste may seem extreme it’s nothing compared to Haider Waheed (12th) who sees himself on a yacht while staring at dolphins.
It’s easier for seniors to see themselves five years from now because sooner rather than later their plans are closer than a freshman. Take Mark Arzola (9th) for example, “I see myself being a mechanic and possibly owning an auto shop,” Arzola said.
While he sees himself running a successful business Mia Garrett (9th) has a more family-oriented future in mind.
“In five years I see myself with a beautiful home, with children,” Garrett said. “My partner and I would build a home with long pillars, a backyard with a tiny playground, and a pool. As for work, I would love to work with animals, dealing with all kinds, harmless to dangerous, and I would have so many pets, even pets you wouldn’t expect a person to have. And for a side job, I bake good and yummy meals for my family and have a little business. And I will have a pet raccoon named Scraps.”
Most students see themselves in college in five years, but some haven’t given it much thought.
“In five years? I don’t know, ask me again during my senior year,” Randy Robinson, (10th), said. Brady Barker, (10th), had a whole-blown plan for himself. “In five years, I see myself running a successful business, built from my passion, dedication, and hard work. I envision a thriving company that not only brings financial freedom but also allows me to create opportunities for others. Every challenge I face will be a stepping stone to growth, and every lesson learned will shape me into a stronger, wiser entrepreneur. I am committed to this journey, and I know that I will turn this vision into reality with persistence, innovation, and belief in myself,” Barker said.
While Barker had a more detailed plan, Riley Gall (11th) sees herself in a simpler setting. “I see myself working in a bakery,” Gall said.
Nina-Annette Ndonwi (11th) sees herself traveling the world. “I see myself probably finishing college and finding job opportunities after graduation. I hope to have traveled out of the country at least once, London or Tokyo would be nice,” Ndonwi said.
Jayme Jackson (11th) sees himself having a coding job in 5 years.
While the future is uncertain, it’s safe to say that many HHS students have a common thread of ambition, growth, and a desire for a meaningful impact that ties their visions together. Whether pursuing higher education, diving into careers, or still figuring out who they want to become the future is full of possibilities.
What remains certain is that the journey ahead will be shaped by the choices students make today, and the resilience they cultivate along the way. The next five years hold the promise of transformation and achievement, reminding us all that the future is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
