Tips for the High School Freshman
Many teenagers find the transition from middle school to high school scary, but it’s not quite as difficult as it seems. In fact, it’s all a matter of being ready for this new chapter of their academic pursuits.
If you’re about to enter high school, you must have heard several stories about it from the media and even from your own parents and older siblings.
The great news is that whatever you could be worried about, it’s probably that important. And if you ask other people who’ve once been in your shoes, you’ll be happy to know that most of them were able to adjust within their first few months as a freshman. While making your own adjustments, remember the following tips:
Grades matter.
Yes, grades count almost always. You should give it your best because colleges always look at applicants’ high school grades when they decide whether or not to accept them.
Don’t be scared of upperclassmen.
Somehow, some freshmen believe that they have to prepare for bullying by upperclassmen. In reality, this is almost impossible because freshmen and upperclassmen rarely have opportunities for interaction. Besides, most schools nowadays have a zero-tolerance policy in terms of bullying.
Be serious with your classes.
The coursework you take during your whole high school career, not just on your freshman year, will prep you up for college and for work. There are advanced placement classes that let you earn college credits while you’re still in high school, while other classes teach trades like electronics or mechanics.
Be prepared.
Unlike in middle school, teachers in high school expect students to be prepared when they come for class. Certainly, this include doing all assigned homework and studying for tests.
Be smart with your decisions.
As a high school student, you will now have more freedom than you ever enjoyed in middle school. However, keep in mind that this is accompanied by consequences for every choice or decision you make. Thus, use this freedom with care because what you do with it can impact your life long after high school.
Do not succumb to peer pressure.
If you want to be successful later on in life, do what you’re supposed to do. It won’t be easy, and it’s fine to enjoy provided you know your limits.
High school is an important part of your academic and personal development. The best way to make the best of it as a freshman is to embrace it with positivity and responsibility.