Freshman year is a period of change and difficulty. Not only are you navigating a new place, but you’re navigating new people, schedules, and life. Here is all the advice you need to have a successful year here at Lincoln High School.
Try Everything, Be Everything
High school can be very stressful, and you may not always know what to do, so embrace every moment. High school is a blank slate, which means you have lots of opportunities. Clubs, sports teams, extracurricular activities–join them all! The more you can get involved, the more connections you make. These connections can help support you throughout your school years. Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. These things may seem small, but they will set you up for a future of success at LHS.
“Find a club, sport, or something that interests you and get involved to make the most of your high school experience,” said Mrs Lepree, an LHS math teacher.
The Goldilocks Method
One thing that is most stressful about high school is the increased workload. Naturally, you may not be used to the increased rigor of the assignments, tests, and projects. If so, use the Goldilocks Method – find what works for you. Experiment with study methods, schedules, and organization strategies until you find what is “just right”. Everyone thinks differently, so don’t get discouraged if you approach your work differently from your peers. If it is hard for you to get things done, break large tasks into smaller and manageable steps. Create deadlines for yourself, make a to-do list, and use the available resources.
“Try as best as you can, make a schedule for yourself, have a planner, know when you’re going to do what, so that you can stay on top of everything that you’re juggling,” said senior Khadija Kouraj
Focus, focus, focus!
It can be very easy to get distracted while studying. Whether it’s social media, TV, or friends, make sure to limit all distractions. Study in a low-stimulating environment, listen to some music, and lock in.
“Put your phone in another room or put it on a plane to Japan,” said sophomore Brandi Beckler.
Don’t procrastinate
It is important your assignments do not pile up on each other. Make sure to complete as many assignments as you can. The more you accomplish, the less stressed you will be. Don’t sit and wait until the night before an assignment is due to finish it. If you get an assignment on Wednesday, and it’s due Friday, don’t wait!
“Procastination adds stress and anxiety to your life,” said Mrs Cardarelli, an LHS English teacher.
Ask for help
High school can feel overwhelming, especially when you don’t understand things in class. But asking for help is not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of strength. Advocating for yourself in trying times demonstrates perseverance and determination. Teachers will expect you to have questions, and they will encourage you to ask for help. Do not be ashamed!
It can be extremely intimidating to ask questions in class. You may be worried about your classmates making fun of you, getting the wrong response from your teacher, and a whole bunch of “what ifs”. Regardless, most teachers appreciate it when you take initiative. They’re there to teach you, not just grade you.
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions in class, which I know is easier said than done. If you have a question, so does somebody else. Communicating and advocating for yourself is essential. A question unasked is a question unanswered,” said Mr Schofield, an LHS English teacher.
