Masuk Free Press

“New year, new me” may be cliché, but for many students, it stands true. A new year is a new start; it’s a chance to try new things, adopt new habits, and leave the past behind. From daily routines to changes in lifestyle, the Masuk community is redefining what’s in and what’s out of 2026.

With a new year comes reflection–while 2026 “ins and outs” may include fashion and social media trends, they also reflect deeper shifts in mindset. They encourage self-awareness and provide opportunities for personal growth.

Not only do students have the opportunity to grow in the new year, but teachers do as well. English teacher, Mrs. Coville, shared her changed mindset going into 2026, leaving behind negative energy and especially self-talk. “That sometimes happens when you get down on yourself,” said Coville. “I’m going to try to reframe my thinking and replace those negative comments with positive affirmations to give myself hope.”

Not only has Coville noted a need for change going into 2026, but senior Adriana Sforza did as well. “I am leaving drama and fake friends in 2025. Anything that takes away from the happiness this year has in store for me is out,” said Sforza. “I am bringing in a new mindset to try new things and live this year to its fullest potential.” 

The emphasis on positivity and self-growth–while leaving behind negativity and self-doubt–becomes a recurring theme throughout the Masuk community as 2026 begins. For some students, this focus on growth includes a stronger balance of school work and productivity, especially for seniors.

As seniors face increased stress related to college decisions and academic expectations, many have recognized a need to adjust their study habits, not only in preparation for college, but to finish out their senior year strong.

Senior Peyton Santos is working on shifting her study habits in order to avoid overworking herself. Many students overload themselves with work at this time of year, so it is important to be aware of mental and physical health.  “I burned myself out very quickly by doing that,” Santos said.

With the added pressure of college applications and admissions on top of a rigorous course curriculum, many students have experienced burnout after just two quarters. 

Other students are approaching the new year with clear academic goals. Senior Will Cerrato said he is focusing on improving his study habits in order to limit stress later in the year. “In 2026, I am bringing in studying harder for tests,” Cerrato said. “I want to take fewer finals this year by having A’s in all my classes.”

While seniors feel the pressures related to academic and future plans, younger students are also using the new year as an opportunity to adjust their mindsets. Freshman Christina McKellick shared her perspective on learning to let go of unrealistic standards. “I’m going to be leaving perfectionism in 2025 and focus on just doing my best and not letting it get to me when something’s not perfect in 2026,” said McKellick.

This perspective reflects the growing awareness among students that progress doesn’t always require perfection, especially as academic and social expectations continue to escalate.

Beyond academics and mental well-being, students are also rethinking how they express themselves through personal interests and style. “I would definitely say that having personal hobbies and interests is in and being boring is out,” said junior Meagan McCaffrey. “Having personal interests is really cool and makes you unique, and I think it’s important to not just follow every trend and not base your personality off of social media.”

McCaffrey also shared her thoughts on fashion trends coming into the new year. “I think that for 2026 we should definitely wear more polka dots and less animal prints like cheetah,” she said. “Polka dots are cute, and cheetah is kind of overdone.”

This form of personal growth doesn’t come from changing habits and adopting new mindsets, but from self-expression that prioritizes personality and confidence over popularity.

While trends continue to change year to year, the values students carry into 2026 appear more lasting. “New year, new me” continues to be more than just a phrase. It reflects mindset shifts, personal growth, and the idea of a fresh start–not just trends. With changes in prioritization, healthy habits and relationships, and embracing personal growth over perfection, students are entering the new year with optimism, ready to make 2026 a year full of positivity and fulfillment. 2026 is a year for growth, not necessarily reinvention. Ins and outs reflect who students are becoming and the values they carry forward throughout the rest of their lives.