19 Aug Daunting But Memorable: A Sophomore’s Guide to Freshman Year
Studying and doing your work consistently from the start will pay off, but don’t forget to make time for yourself. (Photo by Mary Taylor on Pexels)
Commentary, Anushka Devanathan
When I think about my first day of high school, I remember feeling so excited yet completely unprepared. The shift from middle to high school is a daunting change, but it’s also the most memorable one. Everything was so new; I found it difficult and didn’t like high school, at first. As a sophomore, I laugh at it now, remembering how I struggled to find my classes, and would occasionally get lost and end up in another classroom. Eventually, I was able to make my way around the school and get to my classes, and I even started to like high school. However, till you reach that point, here are a few tips to make the transition a little less bumpy:
Get Involved and Explore:
This is your time to explore new clubs, new subjects and new interests. Last year, I quickly joined all the clubs I was familiar with, but I missed some new clubs I’m eager to try this year. Whether it’s a sports team, choir or whatever you’re interested in, it will help you find people who share the same interests as you or maybe find an unexpected hobby.
Build Connections:
When I got my schedule for freshman year, I was really upset since none of my friends had any classes with me. If you don’t have your friends in your class, take it as an opportunity to make new ones. I’m glad to say that I made new friends and talked with different people. By the end of the year, the classes I dreaded the most became the most enjoyable. Make sure to also form a connection with your teacher in each class. Not only will it make the class more interesting, but also, you can ask the teacher for help with a recommendation letter or a college application in the future.
>>>Read: When I’m Overwhelmed, This Teacher Keeps Me Motivated<<<
Consistency is Key:
It’s easy to get distracted when you enter high school, but consistency is important. I can guarantee it will prove very difficult to improve your grade during last-minute tests and finals. Instead, from the start, do your assignments and homework, and study for tests. If you truly miss an assignment, most teachers will be understanding and accommodate you or give you a way to get extra credit. Doing this also makes finals way less stressful, since you thoroughly know the content, and you don’t have to rely on the finals to increase your grade.
>>>Read: Junior Year Can Be ‘Dreadful and Tiring,’ But I Wouldn’t Change a Thing<<<
Time Management:
It’s normal to get overwhelmed with academics, sports, clubs, etc. To avoid that, it’s important to develop the skill of time management. Make sure to balance your work with time for yourself. This will keep you on top of your work and allow you to clearly see what you need to finish and have already finished. Starting these habits early are good for the later years of high school, when academics become more intense.
>>>Read: They Were Right, Junior Year Sucks<<<
Prioritize your well-being:
Your well-being is just as important as your grades and extracurriculars. The goal in high school is not just to do well in your academics and extracurriculars but also to keep yourself happy and healthy. Make sure to give yourself time outside of school, and never compromise sleep for work. It’s also completely OK if you feel like you can’t handle the load and need to drop something to do your best work. I know many people who beat themselves up for dropping something, but it’s better to succeed in a few, than trying to juggle many things at once.
Want more advice, sophomore to freshman? Check out this piece from last school year:
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