5 Ways to Prepare for Freshman Year of High School
Going from middle school to freshman year of high school is a big adjustment.
You'll be faced with new people, new experiences and a new level of academic demands. Being nervous about the transition is totally normal, but there are ways to get ready for this monumental stage that might help you deal with some of those anxious feelings.
Scroll down for a list of ways to get prepare for your freshman year of high school.
Be Open to New Friendships
High school is all about experiencing new things, and that includes new friendships and relationships. While you'll likely head into freshman year with (at least) a few people you know, try not to rely on pre-existing relationships as you enter this new phase of your life. There's no denying that the bonds you have with people from middle school and elementary school are important and meaningful, but do your best to push yourself out of your comfort zone and meet new people.
Getting acquainted with people you haven't met before is a great way to expand your horizons and learn more about yourself. If you're nervous, start small. Simply sitting with a new person at lunch or commiserating with your chemistry partner about an upcoming test can be enough to get the ball rolling.
(Gossip Girl via The CW)
Be Open to New Experiences, Too
With new (and old) friends comes new experiences, and high school is packed with them. From your first homecoming to your first school dance, there will be plenty of seminal traditions you should take part in, so long as you feel comfortable. Since these experiences may be more difficult for some, again, try starting off small and building from there. For example, if you feel anxious about homecoming, familiarize yourself with some of your school's less intense games. If you can, bring a friend or two along for the fun. That way, when the big day rolls around, you'll have a better idea of at least some of the things you can expect.
Figure Out the Lay of the Land
Let's not forget that for most people, going off to high school means heading off to a new building or campus that you're unfamiliar with. If you're worried about the unknown, reach out to the school and see if someone (ideally a current student or teacher) might be able to give you a tour and show you around the place that you'll be spending quite a bit of time in for the next four years. Being even slightly ahead of the game and a tad more familiar with your surroundings could be just enough to give you that little boost of confidence that'll serve you well as you gear up for freshman year.
(Mean Girls via Paramount)
Get Organized
Academically speaking, high school and middle school are two very different beasts. For the first time in your life, grades will "count" in a way that they likely never have before. In other words, that algebra test that you get a 'C' on may very well impact your GPA, which in turn has an effect on where you can go to college, should you choose to attend. While you're bound to have academic slip-ups here and there (it's totally normal), try to get as organized as possible so you can stay on top of your work. Start by buying a planner and carving out a few minutes each night after your homework is done to go over the notes you took in class that day. Staying on top of your studies will make the transition from middle to high school that much easier.
Create a (Loose) Four-Year Plan
Though it may seem daunting, try and take some time to map out your high school career before it officially starts. While there's no need to go overboard and outline every day of the next four years, it can't hurt to make a note of classes you want to take or activities you'd like to try. Believe it or not, the four years go by much faster than you think, which is why having a tentative plan in place helps ensure you're able to make the most of your high school experience.
(Gilmore Girls via The CW)
For more high school-related advice, click HERE for a list of things no one tells you about graduation.