As a senior graduating this school year, I would like to give tips to the 8th graders who will be next year’s freshmen. It is a big transition academically and socially.
For academics, staying organized is crucial. Use a planner or a calendar to track deadlines, assignments, and test dates. If you are struggling with any class or topic, do not be afraid to ask for help, teachers and guidance counselors are there to help you if you need tutoring. The National Honors Society also does tutoring for anyone who needs it. At the beginning of the year, you can switch your classes with the guidance counselors as well if you feel as if one of your classes isn’t the right fit for you. Choose classes that challenge you but do not lose balance in your personal life or you will feel overwhelmed.
To become social, join clubs, sports, and other extracurricular’s like Key Club to make friends and discover more of your interests. Always be open to friendships. High school brings many opportunities to meet others. Create a positive atmosphere for yourself and treat others the way you would want to be treated. Personal growth is important in high school, you need to own up to your mistakes and take responsibility for your wrong-doings.
Other tips from me are that organization is not only a calendar, color code your folders and notebooks, always have a pencil case with pens and highlighters, and keep your locker nice and clean so you know where all of your stuff is. Familiarize yourself with where your classes are and have a routine as to what hallways you take to get to your classes. As for the most important tip, get enough sleep! A good night’s rest is the most important for concentrating and your health.
Transitioning to high school sounds scary at first, but it’s an exciting new chapter. Stay focused while also balancing having fun, and embrace the opportunities ahead of you!
