The Transition from Traditional High School to Middle College
Junior Interviews
By: Naomi Kotani, Jacey Xu
October 2025
A few months into the school year, many Middle College juniors are finding the transition from traditional high school to this alternative program refreshing yet challenging.
Students value the wide range of academic opportunities offered through Middle College.
This was a major draw for many, including Junior Taiki Shinokawa: “I came here for computer science because [my home school] only has one computer science course,” said Shinokawa. “Being able to expand the depth of what I can study [is] nice… I’ve also been able to take more advanced math classes, which is something I wanted to do.”
Several students shared that they appreciated having more autonomy over choosing their schedules, and found the variety of class formats engaging.
Junior Araina Molina shared, “My astronomy class is in the planetarium, which is very different from my law class, which is in a classroom, and then my yoga class, which is just very different, because it's [mainly] physical.”
Junior Carina Dang, who took an online biology course, explained how she benefited from the change in format: “I focus more online because I can do it at my own pace and I have a whole week.”
That sense of independence was echoed by Molina, who shared that she “enjoy[s] being more independent—creating [her] schedule and [choosing her] classes."
Beyond academics, many students noted the significance of the close knit community at Middle College. When walking down the halls or stepping into the classrooms of the Middle College building, it’s evident that the teachers have strong, supportive relationships with their students.
Junior Lelu Daviner experienced this herself. When she “wasn't doing so good mentally, and [it] affected [her learning], [a teacher] noticed and asked if [she] was okay.”
When not in classes, Middle College students are able to utilize the amenities offered at the College of San Mateo, such as its cafeteria and cafes, many study spots, and tutoring centers.
However, Middle College is not without its challenges. For students who are unable to take a car to and from school, the other options are public transportation or the CSM Shuttle. Both of these can mean that students have to make significant adjustments to their schedules in order to make their bus.
Molina described another issue that she has faced with transportation: “I wish the shuttle had more times because it’s way more efficient and faster than SamTrans. The only problem is that it stops running at 2:10, so it’s hard to take later classes.”
Despite the different reasons that have brought them here, Middle College juniors share a sense of discovery and growth. While the experience presents both new opportunities and challenges, many are looking forward to what the next few semesters will bring.