The transition from middle school to high school seems like crossing the threshold to a new and unexplored world. However, many students in high school will assure you that the process is much less glamorous.

What’s high school really like? More work? More stress? More hours? Being back at the bottom of the age chain?

Thoughts like those are common amongst freshmen, you’re all starting out in a new place. A new place that determines more outcomes than you would expect. With that in mind, here are a few tips to surviving  the first year.

1. New building

While this wouldn’t be ranked much in importance, it does help to know where you’re going. Luckily the school holds freshmen orientation so the incoming class familiarizes with the building before the herds of upperclassmen bulldoze over them in the hall. Knowing the location of your classroom and being able to map out general areas of the school saves time for the first few weeks. While other newcomers use the time consuming method of trial and error.  

2. New people

Both elementary and middle school confine students to befriend those in their grade and their class. You might see some familiar faces that were separated by middle school. High school allows students to mingle more by interest than grade. While some classes are restricted to upperclassman, clubs and after school activities generate more opportunities for students to find more people with common interests. Making many friends will lead to a more substantial and enjoyable time during the school year.

3. Workload

The work in high school builds on what you learn in middle school. It gives you more advanced knowledge of academic subjects, which might lead to an increased workload. 
But if you ever find your work too overwhelming, teachers and tutors are available for extra help. While you have more independence as a high school student than you might have had in middle school, it’s important to create a proper balance and keep up with your workloads.

4. Extracurricular Activities

High school also has more clubs, music and theater groups, student government, and sports teams. All of which are fantastic ways to explore your interests. School does not necessarily have to be all work and no play. These activities typically take place after school. Which also help to sharpen your time management skills in your first year. Extracurricular activities are great, but remember to leave free time for yourself. Everybody needs some downtime.

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5. Courses

This is a big subject, a bit confusing too. As touched upon previously, not all courses are available to freshmen. The standard course  requirements are explained by the guidance counselors and teachers as well. While this is a great time to choose electives that pertain to your interest, it should be a priority to do well in every class. The first year is the year your GPA starts to build up, creating a strong foundation will allow you to progress better in years after. So while high school is a great place to discover yourself, it’s also a place where you should try your hardest in all aspects of academics.

The bottom line of it all is to lead your 720 days of high school into a time you will enjoy.