Navigating the Transition to High School: Tips for Freshmen

High School seniors here! I have a lot of words to say on this topic, and I know you might not want to read it all, so feel free to skim if you need to. Good luck with your first year!

Homework and Social Life

First and foremost, don’t put homework on the back burner. Your social life is important, but putting in your best effort in the classroom is equally important. However, don’t overdo it. Grades aren’t everything, but if you’re trying to get into a good college, you might need to put in some extra hours. If you’re just trying to stay on your sports team or after-school activities, do your best and you won’t get kicked out.

Asking for Help

When you don’t understand something, raise your hand in class. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from teachers, fellow students, parents, or guardians. It’s better to ask sooner rather than later.

Hygiene and Making Memories

Don’t neglect your hygiene, as this is something that can easily be taken for granted. Additionally, make memories. These are the best years of your life if you make them that way. I’ve gathered a lot of regrets from my underclassman days, so do the things you hesitate on, and take risks. Don’t walk away from good opportunities and jump right in because you might regret missing out later.

Stay Safe and Drive Carefully

Stay away from dangerous activities such as drinking or taking drugs just for the sake of having fun. There’s so much more out there for you than getting wasted at a party. Learning to drive can be scary, but it’s completely worth it in the end. Don’t be afraid; you will thank yourself later!

Friends First, Dating Second

Being friends with someone before dating is an excellent idea as it eliminates all the awkwardness of not knowing if they’re interested or not. If you like someone, just tell them. Don’t worry if they like you back; if they don’t, move on. Everyone is different, and not everyone has to get along. Just be a decent human being and move on.

Avoid Drama and Focus on Mental Health

Avoid getting caught up in drama. People might talk about you behind your back, but it really has no effect unless you let it. If rumors spread, they will die just as quickly if you choose to ignore them. Just remember that some people do change. Don’t be too hard on yourself; it’s not uncommon to feel distant from someone you once were close to.

Explore and Grow Personally

Take this time to discover who you are. Your brain is maturing as a teenager, and these moments are critical in solidifying your identity. If you’re not sure what you like, try new things. For example, if you’ve never played sports but aren’t sure if you’d like it, join in and see what happens. You can always stop if you find it isn’t for you.

Focus on Others, Not Just Yourself

Remember that the world is not all against you or all for you. In a world like this, it’s hard to convince people that loving others is the key to a lot of joy. Don’t be a doormat either; have respect for yourself. But don’t assume that everything is about you. Other people are struggling too, and a kind word might be all they need to find out they’re not alone.

I hope you have a wonderful first year of high school. High school has its ups and downs, and sometimes it can feel like the world is ending. Just be confident that you’ll come out on the other side. You’ll be fine, believe me :)