Sophomore Matthew Armstrong found the transition from middle school to high school to be a welcome change in his life.

“Rockville High School was just a, such a big step up from middle school, and I felt like it was such a big improvement,” Armstrong said.

The maturity differences across middle and high school students were a noticeable shift for Armstrong. He said Rockville has a much calmer and more mature environment than Earle B. Wood Middle School.

“I feel like I became more mature myself, like being able to handle myself more in classes, waking up in the morning by myself, getting myself to the bus stop, making my own lunch, stuff like that, just more independent,” Armstrong said.

Armstrong said the transition was not easy at first, but as he got used to high school things got easier for him. While he is typically introverted, sports and classes have allowed him to meet new people and form relationships in high school.

“Most of my friends I’ve met through sports like soccer or baseball and, just, it’s got me a lot more places I thought it would get me than just playing sports,” Armstrong said.

Through his sports and education, Armstrong enjoys the changes high school has brought.

“Normally I’m more of a laid-back, like by myself, person. But these people got me more social and more out there,” Armstrong said. “Which is better than sitting at home and doing nothing.”