Imagine walking into a cafeteria where people are dancing and singing on the tables, while others are sitting with their friends and watching the spectacle. This is what we all picture when we think about high school after graduating from middle school. After all, everyone has seen the High School Musicals. Unfortunately, that is not how high school is going to be.
High school is a whirlwind of new experiences and responsibilities. The experience is make or break - from your grades to your involvement in clubs, as it can impact your acceptance into college and where you will spend another 4 years of your life after high school.
But the good news is that high school is a fresh start. It's your chance to redefine and make this an incredible journey. Here are 5 essential tips to set you up for success and ensure you make the most of your high school experience.
1. Open a LinkedIn account
Opening a LinkedIn profile can be terrifying since you must present yourself professionally, yet it is necessary. Once you've created a LinkedIn account, you may connect with and follow people, as well as remain updated on organizations. Furthermore, you can contact folks and inquire about their internship position or anything else listed in their activity section. While reaching out may seem frightening, you will discover that many individuals are eager to reply and assist you.
Tip: Use LinkedIn to keep track of what everyone is doing and research potential opportunities for the upcoming year if you're interested in that.
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2. Make connections with teachers
Talking to a teacher can be intimidating, whether it's inside a classroom when you have questions or outside when you're trying to talk to them about life. However, it doesn't need to be so intimidating. You can start the conversation with a simple hello and talk about your day to help it flow smoothly.
It's great to show interest in their life and share a bit about your own. Establishing a strong connection will be beneficial when you need a letter of recommendation in your senior year, as they can write great things about you in detail. Even if you don't plan on asking the same teacher for a letter of recommendation, you can still gain valuable insights about life.
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3. Don't overload yourself with clubs and schoolwork.
This is truly the biggest piece of advice I can offer. High school can be a whirlwind of opportunities and responsibilities, but it is essential to remember that your mental and physical health comes first. It is easy to get caught up in the pressure of joining every club, passing every test, and chasing the prestigious college dream, but do not let it cost your well-being.
Yes, getting into a prestigious college might open new doors, but is it worth it if you have to sacrifice your health and personal joy? Find time to breathe and enjoy life outside of academics. Make space for hobbies, hang out with friends, and spend time with family. Balance is key. By keeping your life balanced, you’ll be successful and a lot happier.
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4. Experiment
During high school, learn about yourself, including your future aspirations and the study habits that work best for you. Experiment with different study techniques such as visual aids, group study sessions, or quiet solo sessions to better manage your time and make studying a more enjoyable part of your routine. Keep in mind that everyone learns differently, so it's important to learn at your own pace.
Be open to new experiences and don't hesitate to say "yes" to opportunities. Join unique clubs, take on unusual projects, or explore new interests, as each experience offers a chance for personal growth and learning. You might discover a new passion or find a path to a career you hadn't previously considered.
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5. Write things down.
Unless you have a perfect memory, it's important to develop a habit of taking notes on your activities and experiences. Keep accurate records of your involvement in school clubs, projects, volunteer work, and any other relevant events. When writing about your experiences, focus on how your club work affected others and how other individuals impacted you. This will be helpful when writing college essays or activity sections because you'll have all of your experiences and their impact right in front of you.
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While high school is important and can be daunting, make sure to enjoy your experience throughout high school because you will never be able to relive it. The four years will pass by very quickly. Make sure to attend high school games and hang out with friends.
