After riding with mom and dad for the past 16 years, most teenagers want nothing more than to get their license in their hands and drive off into the distance. Teens can finally get a chance to dip their toes into freedom, before becoming adults and having bills to pay. Let’s see how the Warriors are adjusting to being behind the wheel.
The ultimate switch from passenger princess to driving diva is one of the most coming-of-age events in a teenager’s life. The transition from riding in the backseat, to sitting shotgun, and then being face-to-face with the wheel, shows a level of maturity like none other. Most teenagers look forward to the freedom they get when they can say bye to driving with their parents in the car. For sophomore, Riley Ballard, this is the case. “Driving by myself is honestly way more freeing than I thought it would be,” she said. “It allows me to have full control over the radio and I get to play the songs my parents don’t like.
The North Atlanta parking deck is nothing but a realm of chaos. With teens driving at the low speed of 60 mph and seniors claiming the first-floor spots as their territory, side-eyeing any sophomore who even thinks about parking there. The word “calm” simply doesn’t exist in this space. Sophomore Lily Pileggi knows this struggle all too well. “It is always so hectic getting in and out of school,” she said. “Everyone drives so fast, not even scared if they hit someone!”
Most teenagers when getting their license have the usual experience. They get in their car to show how well they can drive and hope they don’t hit the cones when it comes time to parallel park. Then some will have an experience that they will never forget. This is the case for sophomore Ben Fancher. “As I’m nearing the end of my test, I did what I was supposed to, stop at the stop sign and wait for incoming traffic,” he said. “As I’m about to proceed, all of a sudden this man jumps in front of my car, and the driving instructor fails me!”
It is one of those moments that define life as a teenager. Getting their driver’s license. Though this new sense of freedom should be enjoyed it comes with a load of responsibilities. Every Warrior has a different experience behind the wheel, from the infamous NAHS parking deck combating kids who think their on a race track. Turning up the tunes, mixed with a hint of reckless driving, and of course, braving the DMV, these moments will create memories that will last a lifetime. Watch out for the road Warriors!
