The moment the clock hits 3:05 p.m., students rush out of the halls of Omaha South High and are free to do whatever makes them happy. But what is it that students spend their free time doing?

Some students like to stay busy even after they leave school by participating in activities, sports or jobs. Senior Nataly Hernandez spends a large portion of her time working.

“I spend my time working. On the weekends is when I usually work the most,” she said.

Employment is one of the most common ways high school students — especially upperclassmen — spend their time. However, work can get in the way of homework, making it hard to juggle school and a job.

“When I don’t have work, I try to catch up on assignments and finish the things I need to on time,” Hernandez said.

Senior Abigail Castro relates, saying work often disrupts her free time and schoolwork, and Castro said she uses the little free time she has wisely by spending it with her boyfriend and her family.

“I like to try new recipes I find to practice my cooking. I also watch movies and TV shows,” she said.

Throughout her busy schedule, Castro said she finds ways to set aside time to pursue what makes her happy. “I always have enough time to relax because I prioritize time to focus on my own needs,” she said.

Sophomore Jonathan Gonzalez, on the other hand, dislikes having free time and prefers keeping himself busy.

“I don’t like having alone time because personally I’d rather be outside with my friends,” he said.

Gonzalez’s friends keep him company on the weekends; they often go to the movies or visit restaurants, his favorite being Crumbl Cookies. Hernandez also spends time with her friends by relaxing together and watching TikToks.

The time students have after school can sometimes feel short, but it offers a chance to focus on themselves and what they need to succeed.

“Use your time wisely, and make sure to give yourself a break,” Hernandez said.