At the beginning of the year, physics and frustration went hand-in-hand for me. I despised the class. It had nothing to do with the grade I had, but rather I was frustrated because of the spreading rumor: Physics is no longer a requirement.

While some rejoiced, the majority of students complained about how unfair this change was. However, those that complained, might not have considered why this change was made.

“Schedules, especially for the vo-tech students, were getting locked up with remediation courses and project courses,” Mrs. Beth Guarriello said.

For some, physics comes easily. For others, it is an uphill battle. When you ask about physics, it is common that you will catch an eye roll, a sigh, a scoff, and perhaps some vulgar language; physics is viewed as the enemy. However, after about halfway through the year (yes, it took that long), I found an appreciation for physics.

“It is going to be very humbling because you will not get it right away. It requires you to process, think about, and look at over and over again, like a good book,” physics teacher Mr. David Dougherty said. “That’s the hardest thing. Students been told all their lives that they are being successful by studying, memorizing, and reciting, and we ask them to now comprehend and synthesize, and in truth we are the variable in that so students blame us. You have to make decisions, you have to use logic, you have to appreciate and enjoy it.”

By allowing others to influence my opinion of the class, I merely assumed that I hated the class, too. However, it is not actually as difficult as people say. There are many people that will complain about it and that will advise against the course. However, it truly is beneficial.

“It is one area that our species does not have direct answers to. We still don’t know why we exist and why we are here and what does it even mean to be here and [physics] is the constant reminder of where we came from,”  Mr Dougherty said. “When we look to the stars it is that humbling experience.”

Additionally, physics offers more than just equations. It intertwines logic within every topic and it teaches students to think in different ways. The physics classes even get to take a field trip to Dorney Park!

“You never know where your path may lead you and if you have a foundation in all three of the core sciences it will help you later on with whatever you want to do,” Mrs. Guarriello said.

Though some may argue that it is pointless to take physics in a high school setting if it will be required in college, exposure to these critical thinking and problem solving skills are extremely beneficial.

“By having all three of these core sciences (biology, chemistry, and physics) it keeps your options open and allows you to be able to explore to find out what you like or don’t like, which can alter your career path,” biology teacher Mrs. Adrienne Searfoss added.

Really, it depends on how you look at it: is the glass half full or half empty? Look at the course as a new opportunity to learn rather than preparing yourself to scrutinize every possible mistake that you can make in the course (and trust me, there is a lot of room for mistakes). Having lots of room for mistakes, however, means plenty of room for improvement.

“Physics is an overall very good course that can assist in many fields and it really utilizes problem solving skills, so it can be very helpful,” guidance counselor Mrs. Lynne Kelly said.

The rumors are true: physics is no longer a graduation requirement. However, consider what you will be missing out on if you do not take the course. A new way of thinking can unlock a plethora of opportunities for your future.

“If you’re enrolled in the class or planning on enrolling in the class, definitely take advantage of the Spartan periods and get extra help if you need it, because it won’t get any easier,” junior Whitney Kehley said. “It is a very tough course so be prepared to put in your best effort.”