By: Brianna Ramos (Opinion Editor) As of March 2020, there are over 1.2 billion students in the world. It is proven by the National Center for Education Statistics that about 65 percent of high school students move on to higher level education, thus leaving the other 35 percent of students cutting their own path in life. In times like these, it is proven that many students can make it without a college degree. For those in question, it is important you take time to examine your financial situation, consider taking a gap year to evaluate your aspirations in life, and be open minded towards different opportunities that will aid in…

By: Madison Bouton (Staff Reporter/Photographer) With senior year coming to a close and final college decisions being made, it’s time to consider what to bring. This busy end to the school year might cause confusion when packing and students might forget items. Liberty Streeter, a Nease High School graduate from the class of 2019, gave us helpful tips for seniors. When asked what was helpful and what was unnecessary, Liberty stated “the storage units under my bed were the most helpful, I use it to organize all sorts of things from clothes to dishes; however, the clothes drying rack I purchased was never used so I returned it.” She was…

Fending Off the Freshman 15 By Nicole Scarbrough (Publisher) College is a groundbreaking and incredible opportunity for students across the world. Alongside the opportunity to advance their education, students are exposed to a diverse cultural environment. However, while there are inevitably many perks in attending a college, university, or trade school, stress typically is served alongside rigorous academics. According to medicalnewstoday.com, stress is “a feeling that people have when they are overloaded and struggling to cope with demands.” Whether a freshman concerned about their first midterm or a is senior trying to ensure that they graduate on time, stress is experienced by all college students at some point throughout their…

By: Maria Ribot (Editor-in-Chief of The Vertical) You did it! You are weeks away from walking across that stage and receiving the diploma that you’ve worked for 4 years to obtain. Soon you will go off into society as an individual accomplishing incredible things and making a difference in the world. But, wait a minute, have you ever wondered how you will spend your money as you become more financially responsible? As college debt is becoming more of a concern in today’s economy, it is not a bad idea to formulate a budget and plan ahead to provide for a life of high financial literacy and low debt by the…