As second semester approaches, there are a multitude of changes that will be occurring around Harriton, as well as exciting upcoming events. From schedule changes, to Mr. Harriton, there is much to look forward to in the second half of the 2016-2017 school year.

Though your core classes will not be impacted, your electives, gym set, and frees will change next semester. Be prepared for next quarter and take a look at your schedule in advance. It is likely that your gym will take place during another set, and that you will be taking a new elective.

For freshmen, your study halls may switch as well, and for upperclassmen, the same goes for frees. As a sophomore myself, the shift from study halls to frees has been enthusiastically anticipated as a new element of the school day. Overall, you will experience only minor alterations to your daily class line-up, but it is important to be ready before the time comes.

Recently, eighth graders from Bala Cynwyd and Welsh Valley toured Harriton to prepare for the milestone that is the beginning of their high school years. As they begin to think about the big adjustment to a new school, Harriton students should begin pondering course selection for the new school year.

For sophomores especially, these decisions are crucial, as the number of AP classes or HL IB classes taken can greatly affect your levels of stress. It is important to choose what is right for you and to avoid overwhelming yourself with too many difficult classes packed into your schedule.

While some of these changes may be slightly complicated, there are a couple events that should take your mind off of these stressors.

The first of two upcoming events is the  Rap-Slam Poetry Concert. On February 3rd in the Black Box Theater; teachers and students alike will take to the stage to perform covers or original spoken-word poetry or rap.

The concert is standing room only, and is definitely a great way to spend a Friday night with friends. Presented by both SPARC (Slam Poetry and Rap Club) and WIA (Witness Inspire Act), the second year of this production is worth marking your calendars for.

Just three weeks later, on February 24th, the 10th annual Mr. Harriton will take place. The theme for this year’s competition is “Party of the Decade.” Each of the ten contestants, made up of upperclass boys, will display their talents for the audience and judges, who will determine who earns the title of Mr. Harriton 2017.

The contestants also perform in several group dance numbers and participate in a question and answer portion of the contest. Presented by student council, the goal of the night is to fundraise for charities including the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, the Lower Merion Scholarship Fund, the Sean King Foundation, and other local charities, so make sure to buy your tickets when they go on sale in early February!

There are many aspects of the second semester to look forward to, especially where entertainment is concerned. Be sure to take advantage of the opportunities coming your way!