High school is a defining moment in the lives of every student. This is where you will start to develop and work towards many life goals. Going into the school year well-prepared can make all the difference.
You may be wondering how to prepare for the next 4 years and the best way to prepare for your next experience. Here are some ways you can make the right choices before your freshman year!
Balance Your Schedule:
When approaching your first year of high school, you may come across various sports, clubs, and tedious classes. It is important to not let this overwhelm you. You can only have so much on your plate when starting a new year. Despite how tempting it might be to join everything, you may feel drained or burnt out in the end.
When organizing your school schedule, try to prevent having many difficult classes in a row. Mix easier classes and electives in between more challenging courses to prevent feeling drained. Additionally, when it comes to after-school clubs and sports, prevent piling up sports and clubs, but give yourself time during the season, so you can perform your best.
Research Opportunities:
If there is one thing I regret not doing sooner during my high school years it would be not researching opportunities for high schoolers, like me, to explore their interests. One of the essential things jobs and internships look for would be experience when applying, and one who is devoted to learning more about their field of interest.
I suggest narrowing down and start thinking about what you would like to be in the future and what you would like to pursue in college. This would allow you to be a well-rounded individual, gaining experience from mentors, and working with a team!
Connect With Friends:
Having a good community can make your first year of high school and the rest to come way less stressful. Don't be afraid to talk to your peers or engage your teammates on and off the field. The friendships you make during freshman year can lead to years of bonding, study sessions, and milestones.
Try be-friending those who are in the same boat as you because you will feel less alone. Great ways to connect with people would be through social media, classes, and clubs/sports. Also, remember to have fun amid the rigor.
Buy Proper School Supplies:
High school requires essentials for note-taking, carrying books, and stationery. If your high school does not provide a school supply list, come prepared with the basics, depending on which classes you are taking. For instance, for your core classes, math would require you to have a notebook/binder, calculator (if not distributed at school), pencils, pens, and a ruler. Reading, science, and history would require a notebook/binder, pencils, pens, and highlighters for annotating and taking notes.
Depending on which elective you will be taking, supplies vary, but it is good to have a notebook for each. Lastly, make sure you get durable and good-quality school supplies, for they can be used for the next school year.
Get a Planner:
Planners are essential in making your schedule organized. It can be used as a way to schedule important events and activities during the school year. You can also use a planner to serve as reminders for due dates on assignments and to set goals you want to achieve for the week, month, or year.
Create a Morning Routine:
Mornings can be stressful and hectic for a student. To prevent this, creating your own routine can provide a sense of coordination. First, set your alarm, and begin your day by brushing your teeth, washing your face, or showering.
Then, have an outfit already picked out from the night before to prevent indecisiveness. Make sure to eat breakfast, so you are fueled for the day. Then get ready by fixing your hair and grabbing your backpack to begin the day.
Create a Night Routine:
Student athlete or not, creating a night routine that allows you to get an adequate amount of sleep is crucial. I would have everything I need to be prepared for the next day in my backpack, charged devices, and a set alarm. For example, when you come home finish all homework that is needed to be completed for the next day, so you are not up late at night cramming. This allows you to have an open and relaxing evening where you can engage in calm activities, such as reading, listening to calm music, and creating a dim environment for you to rest.
Have a Study Space:
One thing that may allow you to perform your tasks better is having an organized space to complete your homework. Find a quiet place within your home, or in your room. Clear your desk and set it up with essential supplies, such as pens, pencils, and paper. Try to keep this area organized, so it is ready for use for completing assignments fast.
Expose Yourself to Sports & Clubs:
If you are into sports or have done a sport in middle school, continuing in high school, or finding a new sport that interests you can allow you to enhance your skills. Sports and clubs will also allow you to be further involved within the school community. Additionally, meeting other people with similar interests to you can allow you to form friendships while doing what you love.
Clubs are a great way to gain leadership experience as well, and be a part of a bigger project and initiative. This exposure will be great for developing a resume and gaining experience.
Tour Your School:
Navigating where you will need to go can be so helpful with a busy schedule. You will have the chance to explore the gym, cafeteria, and classrooms. Many high schools hold orientation for freshmen before the school year starts. Make sure you attend, so you can meet teachers and find out more about your classes.
Conclusion
With freshman year being underway, don't panic or feel overwhelmed because you are in the same boat as many others. High school is filled with amazing experiences, friendships, and milestones. With these 10 tips, you will hopefully be able to reach your goals more smoothly.
