1. Walk fast in the hallways. Most people have places to go and would rather be on time so don’t make them late. Freshmen have the reputation of being slow and you have the power to change that stereotype.
2. Don’t be afraid to talk to teachers if you are having trouble. Your grades are your responsibility, so don’t make or allow your parents talk to your teachers more than you do. Take control of your education; it’s your life. If you have problems completing an assignment, talk to your teachers instead of just handing them a reprieve pass expecting an extension.
3. Get involved in school activities. If you start early you can weed out the clubs that you don’t like and do the ones you do. Also, if you start your freshman year, it’s easier to get a position in the club by the time you are an upperclassman.
4. Make sure you are leaving time to relax and sleep. You will be a happier person if you just sleep, so sleep at least eight hours every day if you can. Cramming that last hour won’t make a difference if you are sleeping through your classes. Missing a homework assignment is better than pulling an all nighter. Also, teachers are reasonable people so email them if you have problems.
5. Be nice. You will see these people for four years so don’t make the people around you miserable.
6. Have fun. This is a time when you get more and more freedoms to do what you like, when you want. Explore your options, but don’t be stupid.
7. Don’t worry. It’s just high school. Whatever drama will probably end when you graduate. You will forget your GPA after a few years. While it is important to do well, you don’t have to be perfect to get into your “dream college.”
By Kelly Chian, ’16