Welcome to the high school! Things at the high school are much different than what you’re used to and I want to make sure you’re prepared. I hope your first month at the high school went well, and that you’re able to enjoy your first year here.
There are a few things you should know about being a freshman. The biggest thing you need to know is how to use your time wisely. At first, AAP sounded like another boring class that was a waste of time. It isn’t. It has helped me in times when I had other activities to do after school. Don’t give the excuse that you will do it at home. Most of the time you will procrastinate because you’re too busy watching the latest episode of “Duck Dynasty” or “Teen Wolf.” It’s important to get all of your assignments done as soon as possible. Another thing is to listen to directions the first time they are given. Don’t be that student that fails a project for not following or reading the directions properly.
Two internet sites you should view multiple times a week as a freshman are your school email and MMS. Make sure you are always checking them. If you have a smartphone, set up your alerts to go off every time you get an email from your school account. It makes your life a lot easier, and getting last minute messages from teachers is always a possibility.
Having good attendance is also important. Most courses introduce new material every class period, so missing a day won’t be beneficial if the teacher gave a lecture that day. If you miss a class, go straight to the teacher to see what you missed. They won’t hunt you down if you missed something— it’s your responsibility. You are in high school now, and there is a lot more expected of you. Your grades as a freshman count just as much as any other grade. If you get bad grades now, you may regret it later, so don’t play the game of catch up.
Also, never be shy to ask a teacher for help. They are there to help you; it’s their job. None of the freshman teachers are scary. In fact, most of them are very easy to talk to. Make sure you get to know your teachers to an extent that it won’t be uncomfortable later on when you need something important. They care if you pass; they want to see you trying your best. However, it isn’t their job to make you pass. You have to do the work and try your best. If you need help but are afraid to ask in class, you can go during AAP or after school and they will be more than happy to help because you are going out of your way to learn.
Last but not least, have fun. There are so many clubs, sports and activities you can be involved in. Join a club and make some new friends. Work hard, but have a good time.