The saying "when life gives you lemons, make lemonade" is the best way to describe the recent budget cuts regarding the public school system. Today, a student needs to go through a lot of lemons to come out with the elixir of lemonade known as a college degree.

Self- direction plays a crucial role in reaching higher education. At the high school level, the teacher furloughs that will be put into place at public schools throughout Hawai'i will weed out the self-directed, determined students from those who simply do not care.

Students who strive for a prosperous future can take advantage of the furlough days by doing community service or other activities that connect lessons learned in the classroom to the real world to beef up their college applications. Dedicated students who fall behind in classes can use the furlough days to catch up or study. The educational standards for public school students will not change; students need to work harder than ever to ensure they will meet them.

Self-motivation is important now more than ever. Furloughs will be a chance for Hawai'i's next generation to push themselves, to strive for the lemonade at the end of the road.

Jessie Steiner | Grade 12, Le Jardin Academy