There is no bigger sense of community in Oceanside than there is when you step inside the halls of Oceanside High School. Maybe I'm bias since I graduated from there not too long ago, but I think I definitely had the ideal high school experience. From cheering on our incredible football team, to pushing mats at battle, or even just joining one of the seemingly endless number of clubs--there are just some memories that are irreplaceable. Our school has its own culture and community. For those of you who still attend, and even graduated, here are seven things you know to be true:
1. 309 is no longer just a number
Our student section is probably the best on Long Island. From the creative chants, to the white outs, to the giant flags; our school knows how to show it's pride and it's colors. Nothing is better on a fall night then sitting in 309 with your best friends and screaming at every touchdown. You can never attend enough football games.
2. You will never listen to Seven Nation Army the same again
I've been out of OHS for almost two years now, and every time I hear Seven Nation Army, my mind goes back to sitting in 309. Trust me, as much as you'd like it to go away, it will always be associated with the Sailor Nation.
3. 24 is the best place to go
24 is the best place to go anytime, but nothing was more satisfying than getting a bagel and coffee during your off period or after a game. The fact that it literally never closes made the dreaded 3rd period lunch a little more bearable.
4. The teachers are probably some of the best
While obviously there were some teachers that I didn't see eye-to-eye with, most of the time I was genuinely interested in my classes (even subjects I didn't like!) It seemed like every semester I had a teacher (or teachers) whose classes I just absolutely loved. (Special personal shoutouts to Bruno and Howley!)
5. Battle is one of the best nights of our year
Nothing is more fun than being seated with your entire grade and getting really excited to compete against the rest of the school. Picking themes is always one of the funniest times, and the decorating nights always make for some of the best memories. But nothing is greater than watching your friends compete, and cheering them on. Whether your grade wins or not, you can never deny how much fun it is.
6. We always show our pride
From the Defend The Nation shirts, to the Sailor Nation Lanyards, to the O Stickers on the back of every car in the senior lots--it's undeniable that we're a little proud to come from such an amazing school! I can't count on my hands how much sailor gear I own (and refuse to ever get rid of).
7. There is never enough parking
Speaking of our senior lots: it seems like there will never be enough parking for the amount of kids who have cars. Nothing is worse than being late to class because you had to park your car on Ralph.