Welcome to high school! As I approach the end of my high school career, I want to share some tips that I believe will help the next generations of freshmen.

Tip #1 – Getting from one class to another is not a track meet in the hallway

I get it- the hallways are loud, obnoxious, and cramped places to be. Instead of rushing through the halls, just go along with the currents of people and you’ll find your way. I understand being worried about getting tardies because no one wants a big, bad detention! But honestly, as you go through each school year, you realize it’s not ultra-serious. Some teachers will be strict about your punctuality, and everyone else is pretty relaxed. By no means do I mean goof off and come to class 20 minutes late, but be aware of what time it is, navigate swiftly and calmly, and you’ll get to class on time. 

Tip #2 – Don’t walk with your laptop open in the hallway

Please watch where you are going. As I mentioned before, the hallways are incredibly busy during the passing period. Be aware of your surroundings for your own safety and the safety of others, and wait to play on your laptop until you are seated in your next class.

Tip #3 – It’s not trendy to be mean to people

Everyone is nervous and freaked out, so spread some kindness and give compassion generously. It’s not trendy to be mean to people. You don’t have to get along with everyone, but be respectful and keep an open mind- who knows, you might make a new friend.

Tip #4 – Manage your time effectively- this way you will not have so much homework

It might take you a while to become comfortable with your schedule, and that’s okay. Once you get the hang of your schedule and workload, it will be easier to gauge what you need to do and when. Make sure you use your SRT time efficiently and ask for help if you need it.

Tip #5 – This is just high school, make sure you do important things during your time here but don’t overstress

This is high school. Take your school work seriously, but don’t be too extreme with it. It might take you a while to find a balance between the two and that’s fine. Remember that your mental health should come first and if you are struggling in any way, shape, or form, please reach out to your counselor or a trusted adult.

Tip #6 – Make sure you go to all the events you can 

Since starting senior year, I have been shocked thinking about my freshman year- it seems like it was just yesterday! Take advantage of this time in your life. Make friends, step outside of your comfort zone, and go to all of the events you can, even if you think it’s cheesy. Once you graduate, this chapter has ended. Go out and have (responsible) fun. Be the loudest one cheering at the football games. Time has passed by so quickly, make sure you enjoy yourself and enjoy fun school events.

Tip #7 – It’s okay to ask for accommodations

I used to never ask for any sort of extension with my assignments. While you shouldn’t get too used to asking your teacher for an extension, I wish someone would have told me that it’s okay if you need extra help or time. Sometimes life happens and you simply need another day. Definitely communicate with your teachers, and build a good rapport with them. Your teachers are here to help you, just ask!

Tip #8 – Get involved in an activity

Getting involved in an extracurricular activity can be a great way to meet others and gain new hobbies. We are lucky to have a great variety of clubs at CHS. Listen to the announcements, pay attention to the posters hung up, and read the Sandscript to know when different clubs will be meeting.

Tip #9 – Friendships change; you will lose people and you will gain others

I do not have the same friends as I did in my freshman year. I did keep a few of my friends, others became people I nod at in the hallway, and others I don’t engage with at all. Friendships will change in high school. You will lose friends and you will gain friends. Enjoy things for what they are. People change so often in high school trying to figure out who they are and what they want to be. 

Tip #10 – Don’t feel the need to be in a relationship

I feel that many high school students think they have to be in a relationship to have the “high school experience”. Firstly, there is no one high school experience, it will be what it is. My freshman year was disrupted due to COVID-19. There was nothing normal about it, but I still made memories I look back on fondly. Secondly, we are children. I think we as a student body forget sometimes that we are kids trying to figure life out. We don’t need to have relationships to be complete or to fit in. What works for some people isn’t going to work for others.

Tip #11 – Junior year is difficult academically

Everyone always said that junior year would be the most difficult academically. I didn’t believe them, that is, until junior year. Now, I did choose more intensive classes because that is what worked for me. Remember your personal limits, keep in mind your mental health, and voice any concerns you have about your schedule with your counselor. As always, study, nourish your body with healthy food and water, and get an appropriate amount of sleep. It is repetitive advice, but take it, you’ll wish you had done it sooner.

I hope that these tips will help you. Remember that your experience in high school will be completely different from someone else’s. Don’t compare yourself to others, but embrace your differences and grow into someone you are proud of. And most importantly, make good memories.