For eighth graders Holden Woolridge and Aishani Mukerji, the path from Unity Point School to Carbondale High School is beginning to feel real. Just a few weeks ago, the two students joined more than one hundred other eighth graders from area schools for orientation at Carbondale High School, getting their first glimpse of what life will be like when they become freshmen this fall.

The visit offered tours of the building, presentations about academics, and an introduction to the wide range of extracurricular opportunities waiting for them. For both students, the experience confirmed something they had already begun to realize: high school will open doors to even more possibilities.

Aishani explains that the orientation helped students understand how many options exist once they arrive at the high school. “They showed us all the classes and extracurriculars, and there are so many opportunities to take what you’re really interested in,” she says.

Holden was struck by the sheer number of clubs and activities available. During the presentation, a large screen displayed the names of dozens of organizations students could join. “There were over sixty clubs listed,” he recalls.

Both students say that the range of academic courses was just as impressive. Holden is especially interested in the forensic science classes offered at Carbondale High School. The program includes an introductory course and a more advanced class that builds on those skills.

Aishani, meanwhile, is drawn to opportunities in both science and communication. “I like psychology a lot, and there’s a genetics class I really want to take,” she explains. “And I’m looking forward to speech because it helps you build confidence.”

Although the transition to high school may seem like a big step, both students say their experiences at Unity Point have prepared them well. Holden believes the school’s accelerated math program has helped students understand what more challenging coursework will feel like. About one-third of the eighth-grade class participates in the advanced math track, which introduces students to a faster-paced academic environment.

Students also complete STAR testing several times each year, which helps track academic progress and prepares them for the kinds of assessments they will encounter in high school. Holden says the regular testing helps students become more comfortable with exams and understand how their learning is measured.

Academic preparation is only part of the story. Aishani says the wide range of activities offered at Unity Point has also helped students explore their interests and discover where their talents lie. Programs in fine arts, sports, and academic competitions give students early opportunities to develop skills that can continue in high school.

Scholar Bowl is one example that both students hope to continue. The academic competition team at Carbondale High School has a strong reputation, and both Holden and Aishani are eager to see if they can earn a spot on the roster.

Aishani is also planning to stay involved in music. She hopes to continue singing in choir during her freshman year and may remain active in band as well.

Beyond academics and activities, Unity Point has also helped students build friendships and confidence—qualities that will help them navigate a larger high school environment. Holden and Aishani say their own friendship developed more fully during middle school as students began changing classes and interacting with a wider group of peers.

High school will introduce them to many new classmates from other schools in the district, but neither student sees that as a challenge. Instead, they view it as an opportunity to expand their circle of friends while maintaining the relationships they already value. “We’re all ready to branch out and meet new people,” Aishani says. Holden agrees, pointing out that some of his former classmates from Giant City School will also be attending Carbondale High School.

As they prepare for their final months at Unity Point, both students say the school has played an important role in shaping their confidence and ambitions. Holden believes the school provides an environment where students can grow academically and personally.

Aishani echoes that sentiment, pointing to the school’s diverse and welcoming community. Events like Heritage Night, where families share food and traditions from their cultures, help students appreciate the many backgrounds represented at the school.

“Unity Point is a great place to go if you want to build a strong future,” she says.