In the last stretch of fall and with Thanksgiving break finally in sight, many Princeton Day School students are trying to slow down long enough to notice the parts of their day that bring a sense of balance. Even as assessments loom, assignments stack up, and endless hours of rehearsal or practice are expected, the approaching holiday offers a reminder to look for a moment of gratitude, especially in the routines that are easy to rush past.
For senior Sahana Karthik, that moment arrives before the first bell rings. She shared that her morning drive to school with her younger sister has become one of the most meaningful anchors in her week. “It is my last year in high school, so even the simple car rides feel special now,” she said. “I definitely question her music choices at times, but I still love starting the day with her and spending the time that we won’t get back.”As the semester picks up speed, many seniors say they feel these everyday interactions more keenly, aware that their familiar routines will shift once they graduate.
Gratitude on campus is also shaped by the people who help students manage the pressures of the school year. Senior Amy Lin commented thatthe art studio has been one of the places where she finds support. “I am really thankful for Ms. Shockey,” Lin said. She explained that her teacher not only offers guidance on her pieces but also creates a space where students can decompress during demanding days. “She is always there, whether I need help with a project or a snack on a stressful day.”Lin’s reflection mirrors a broader sentiment shared by many students. Teachers who offer encouragement, time, or even a handful of candy often make a more significant difference than they realize during this busy period.
As PDS heads into the holiday season, these glimpses of gratitude show that appreciation often grows from familiar people and places. Whether in early-morning commutes, creative spaces, or the steady presence of supportive people in our lives, students are finding moments that help them navigate the rhythm of fall.
