My Experience at Lincoln Middle School
by John Alexander, III
My years at Lincoln Middle School have been some of the most important years of my life. When I first arrived as a 6th grader, I didn’t really know what to expect. I was nervous, excited, and unsure all at the same time. Looking back now as an 8th grader, I can see how much I’ve grown not just in my classes, but as a person.
One of the biggest challenges I faced was adjusting to the schoolwork in 6th grade. Elementary school felt simple compared to what I was suddenly expected to do. At Lincoln, every teacher had different rules, assignments were longer, and projects required more effort. I remember the first time I forgot to turn in an assignment because I didn’t write it down. I felt embarrassed, stressed, and for a moment I wondered if I could really keep up.
But little by little, things began to change. I learned how to stay organized by using a planner and checking it every day. I also started asking teachers questions when I didn’t understand something instead of pretending I did. The more I worked at it, the easier school became. What once felt overwhelming started to feel like something I could handle.
By 7th grade, I had found my rhythm. I made new friends, joined activities, and began to feel like I truly belonged at Lincoln. I was no longer the shy kid trying to figure everything out. I was more confident, both in my schoolwork and in myself. I even started helping other students when they struggled, remembering how tough it had been for me at first.
Now that I’m in 8th grade, I can see how every challenge helped shape who I am. Lincoln Middle School has been a place where I learned to work hard, be responsible, and push through difficult moments. It has taught me that adversity isn’t something that stops you—it’s something that helps you grow.
As I get ready to move on to high school, I’m grateful for the people, the lessons, and even the tough days that helped me improve. My experience at Lincoln Middle School has prepared me for the future, and I will always remember the journey that started back in 6th grade.