Who We’ve Become: CSH’s Long-Lasting Impact
“Comparing the perspectives of freshmen and alumni, it becomes visible that even though each student’s journey is one of a kind, there is a shared sense of growth that defines the CSH experience.”
CSH is more than just school; it’s also where our identity begins to take shape. At CSH, students enter as freshmen, unsure of who they might be, and then they leave as seniors with a stronger sense of self, shaped by education, relationships, and experiences that are beyond the classroom.
This transformation does not happen overnight! It develops within time, through those moments like joining clubs, forming individuality through friendship, and learning from upperclassmen. Comparing the perspectives of freshmen and alumni, it becomes visible that even though each student’s journey is one of a kind, there is a shared sense of growth that defines the CSH experience.
Starting the Journey: The Freshman Perspective
For many of our freshmen, entering high school is a mix of excitement and anxiety. It comes with many adjustments in a new environment, heavier workload, and new social exposure, all of which are overwhelming at first. To understand their experience, we spoke to five underclassmen, from freshmen to sophomores, about changes they experienced while transitioning into high school and how the Comp Sci High community helped them adapt.
Freshman Interview Responses:
“How did you feel when you first started school as a freshman?”
→ “I was scared because I didn’t know anybody, but I feel like the school changed that for me. They helped me push myself out there and I started talking to more people”“What challenges have you faced so far during your first year?”
→ “I would say getting to know the teachers, because at first they are really strict, but the more you get to know them they really help you, and they help change the way I communicate with others around the school. ”“How has the school community helped you adjust?”
→ “Staff is always there and they’re quick to help you. Whenever you need something they are quick to support you and I feel that's what really helped me adjust to the new environment."“What activities or groups have helped you discover your interests?”
→ “Soccer and gaming club helped me expand my community. These clubs and sports helped connect with others and pushed us to have better connections.”“What are your hopes for who you want to become by senior year?”
→ “I want to be more of a social person, due to me still talking to the same people all the time. Teachers have helped me learn that I’m doing well and I’m in the right place most of the time. But, I feel like the community could be better because most of the time there's a lot of drama and rumors going around and it’s conflicting with the environment.”
Despite these challenges, many freshmen find their place in our community through clubs, sports, and daily interactions in the classroom. These experiences create a foundation for confidence and discovering one's self.
Looking Back: The Alumni Perspective
By our senior year, we reflect on how much we’ve changed, not only academically, but also personally. The anxiousness we once felt is replaced with ease, confidence, and a sense of direction. We reached out to three alumni to talk about this sense of growth and change.
Senior Interview Responses:
“Looking back, how have you changed since freshman year?” - Aaron Williams
→ “Looking back I feel like I have grown a lot because being the person that everyone loves to be around is the best feeling because opportunity will be given to you based on how you approach people and being mindful of every situation”“How did teachers, friends, or mentors influence your growth?” - Seven Medina
→ “Mentors influence my growth at Comp Sci High because they set me up with important life skills that will help me in my post secondary career. For example, I learned public speaking, leadership, and how to communicate my ideas effectively. This in turn helped me secure valuable internships during my high school career that I am grateful for CSH.“What advice would you give to freshmen?” - Justice Theophillus
→ “To know that it’s okay to mess up because things are going to happen, and don’t let your emotions get the best of you. Also building relationships with teachers because all they wanna do is help you.”
Oftentimes seniors see relationships–with teachers, coaches, and their peers–as the most impactful part of their experience. These connections help students move through difficult times and grow into more confident people.
The Power of Community and Connection
Research reflects on the idea that stronger school communities play a role in student development. Studies from organizations such as the National Center for Education Statistics show that students who feel a sense of belonging in school are most likely to succeed either academically or socially. Furthermore, research on high school environments emphasizes that participating in extra curricular activities boost confidence, engagement over the long run, and leadership skills. Schools that focus on relationships and mentorships form spaces where students are able to feel supported, influencing their ability to grow as people. For Comp Sci High, community-building is a major part of our success as students. The school’s focus on our collaboration, relationships (between teacher and student), and inclusivity mirror what many CSH students have described in their own experience.
Overcoming Challenges Through Excellence
Comp Sci High in the Bronx (CSH) has been recognized as one of the top high schools in NYC, reflecting on a strong academic standing, it represents opportunity and student success. The school holds a 93% graduation rate, high math (87%) and reading (77%) proficiency, and a 20:2 student teacher ratio, this contributes to our ranking as #5 in New York charter high schools and #172 in all New York public high schools (Niche, 2026). This information focuses on the school’s goal of college readiness, technological connections, and student support. For students, attending a school with this level of achievement gives us the opportunity to become motivated and it creates a sense of confidence. Beyond individual success, the school's culture is founded on excellence and strengthens the community, students both shape and benefit from the reputation CSH holds and the opportunities it provides.
A Lasting Impact
From freshmen who are beginning their journey to seniors who are getting ready to leave, CSH leaves a lasting impression on everyone who walks through our halls. It’s a place where we as students grow into who we are. We’re supported by a community that values connection, tradition, and progress.
Through our shared experiences and personal obstacles, students don’t only pass through CSH–we become a part of it. And in our individual journey, we carry a piece of CSH’s community with us long after we’ve graduated.