Young is the New Mature

Katie Wong | sept. 24, 2024 | The fall Supplemental

Some children dream of growing up when they see the freedom and independence that come with being an adult. Yet, teenagers approaching adulthood, including those at Stanton College Preparatory School, seem to be clinging to the remnants of their childhood. This reversal highlights a significant shift in how different age groups perceive growing up.

As the digital age continues to impact society, a distinct trend has emerged among the youth. In 2024, The New York Times has increasingly reported on the epidemic of 'Sephora kids'—most notably those who are 9 to 15 years old—which has shaken up the beauty industry by spending billions on makeup and beauty products typically associated with adults. In 2023 alone, investment bank Piper Sandler found they spent 19% more on skin care products and 33% more on cosmetics than in 2022. 

On the contrary, some teenagers attempt to stay young by doing activities more closely associated with their early childhood years, such as playing video games like Fortnite or Roblox. This paradox reflects deeper societal changes and raises questions about the evolving nature of childhood and adolescence.

“As a kid, I was really excited to start driving and get a job,” said junior Jimia Love. “But now that I only have a year or two left until adulthood, I’m starting to feel more nervous. I know I can do it, but it’s really scary because I know that my childhood days will soon be over.”

Love’s view is common among numerous upperclassmen at Stanton, as many have simultaneously expressed anxiety and nostalgia towards growing up. Others believe the transition to adulthood is not about newfound freedom, but rather about managing responsibilities that seem to multiply every year. This loss of enthusiasm stems from exposure to the real world and interactions with adults. 

“I remember when I was younger I was very excited to be independent; I could choose my own clothes instead of my mom picking them out for me,” said senior Ryonelle Mijares. “But now, I do not want to be an adult. I think there [are] too many responsibilities and that I’ll be too overwhelmed.”

To stay reconnected with their childhood, the senior class officers organized a bittersweet celebration of their “last first day,” when the seniors brought a child-themed backpack to school. This day is often seen as a milestone for approaching the end of high school and, in turn, childhood. The emotions of reminiscing over the past four years were widely felt by the class of 2025 on Aug.12, 2024, as they honored the first day of their senior year. Seniors gathered in the courtyard to take photos for their last first day, admiring each other’s backpacks.

“We thought it would be a great way to look back on memories from the last twelve years,” said senior class officer Nathan Arscott. “It’s our last year, so we [have to] have fun.”

This fun seems to be years away for Stanton’s underclassmen, as they glorify the idea of self-autonomy and the rights that come with turning 18. Although they are only teenagers, they exhibit an optimistic attitude towards growing up, something often shown by younger kids. This demonstrates the contrast in how older and younger teenagers perceive aging.

“I’m excited about getting a job and having my own money,” said freshman Parth Purandare. “I’m not ready to grow up, but I do appreciate [potentially] having the freedom to do anything I want.”

Purandare’s sentiment is widely echoed across the class of 2027 and the class of 2028, as they reflect on their youth. The underclassmen are excited to pursue their ambitions, develop their character, and improve as a person. Their anticipation is grounded in their belief that the best parts of growing up are yet to come.

“Growing up is fun but also sad, just bittersweet overall,” said sophomore Jude Khakpour. “I’m excited to become my own person and I like independence. I am also hoping to pursue a deeper relationship with God and know who my friends are.”

Khakpour’s reflection captures the essence of the emotional complexity teenagers face as they approach adulthood. This comes with new milestones and compels teenagers to carry forward the best parts of their childhood into adulthood. Because of this, teenagers are learning to enjoy the present, rather than worry too much about the future. This is a reflection of how today's youth is navigating the complexities of growing up, balancing the desire for independence with a deep appreciation for their fleeting childhood.