Hi, I just moved to Oakville and I’m going to be starting school at STA next week. I’m in ninth grade and I’m kinda nervous because everyone already has their friend groups and I may be the odd one out. Also what if school is really hard? Do you have any advice on what to do?
-Rando123
Hey Rando123,
Although starting at a new school may be hard, it gets easier. High school is a time to be who you want and start over. There will be awesome highs – meeting new people, finding new interests, getting good grades – and sucky lows – losing friends, getting a bad grade, hard projects, stressful times, and other things. But to make the transition a bit easier here’s some advice for starting at a new school.
1. Don’t be scared
Remember that there were people just like you who had to start out at a new school too and they survived. Take a deep breath and remember that in a few days or weeks you will become accustomed to the way things work and hopefully will have a group of friends to help you out. Even if things don’t go the way you want, high school only lasts for four years and then its over. You will survive!
2. Don’t be afraid to talk to new people
Try and talk to people you wouldn’t normally talk to. You never know what can come from these relationships.
3. Join a club or team
I know everyone says join a club and get involved, so it sounds really cliché, but it really is a good idea. It can help you make new friends, do something you enjoy, and give you a break from school. Whether you like sports, the arts, debates, or French, there is a mixture of things for you to try. Even if you aren’t the best at something it will still be a good opportunity to meet new people. Check out the school website or listen to the announcements to be in the know.
4. Get to know your surroundings
I really recommend that you get to know the school. Find out where your classes are, figure out how to open your locker, and know your schedule inside and out. The last thing you want is to be late to class on your first day and have to awkwardly interrupt the class. This actually happened to me on my first day of high school – don’t be like me
5. Pay attention in class
Pay attention in class and try to actually understand what is being taught. It makes life so much easier when tests or exams come, as you don’t have to cram everything you’ve learned into two-five days of studying.
6. Don’t stress about one bad grade
We’ve all gotten a bad grade before, and although they suck, try not to stress out about it too much. It’s not the end of the world and you can do better on the next test or assignment.
Transitioning to a new school can be hard, but just remember to have fun, be yourself, and embrace the change.
Grace O
April 27