The transition between eighth grade and freshman year can be difficult. It is entering a new world full of unfamiliar people, classes, and experiences. To ease this rocky transition seniors have answered some lingering questions freshman have about the overall high school experience.
What is a study strategy that helped you be successful in your classes?
“Study at the same every day, set a certain time aside and assure that you have no distractions around you. It’s extremely important to maintain discipline.” – Travis Ozanich
“Focusing on what the top priority is and then working your way down the list from there. “ – Mallory Schenkenberger
“I continue to study old material after we test it so I can remember it for later or AP test.” – Sara Sarkisian
When starting high school did you ever feel left out or alone? If so, what did you do to help with that?
“It’s comforting to know that all the other kids who are going to be freshmen are feeling the same way. People are much more open and welcoming than you would just assume. Although, sometimes I did feel left out. In the beginning before you have a chance to connect with people, it could be difficult to find someone to sit with at lunch. To combat this, join a club. Find a friend and join together. This way, you see more faces and can sit with them at lunch or even just wave at them in the hallway.” – Hanna Moore
“Yes at times, I really tried to get involved and the best way was through sports. Being in a team environment makes you feel like you are a part of something and they become your family for the next four years.” – Mallory Schenkenberger
“I joined a sport and met people who shared the same interests as me and talked to others in my classes.” – Brooke Harvey
How much homework did you get during your sophomore, junior, and senior year in comparison to freshman year? What did you do to manage the workload?
“I think this depends on the classes you take but my junior year but my junior year was when I had the most homework because of the rigorous classes I took. I think if I took less AP classes my homework schedule would look a lot different.” – Sara Sarkisian
“Freshman year was free. Sophomore and junior year workloads are heavily dictated by the classes you decide to take. Taking three APs will be much more time consuming than taking culinary. Make sure to take senior year lightly so you can enjoy it.” – Travis Ozanich
“About the same amount depending on what level of classes you take but I took all honors and AP classes my early years to have easier schedules later on.” – Timothy Abood
What was your favorite class you have taken and why?
“Sociology because it really opens up a whole new understanding of people and the world.” – Anna Ready
“I love my sixth district! I think everyone should take one, it not only makes your day easier, but you get to experience things you never thought you would before.” – Kiley O’Connell
“ASL just because it’s fun, the teachers are amazing and it’s useful to know.” – Timothy Abood
What is the biggest difference between freshman and senior year?
“Academic interest and personal growth. By Senior year most of your classes are classes that you want to take so you end up being interested in them. As a person you change. The four years between 14 and 18 are huge. Freshmen are still figuring things out, how high school functions. Seniors have all the responsibility and, whether they know it or not, they are the role models that people look up to.” – Hanna Moore
“The sense of relief and freedom that you get your senior year. You’re able to reflect on all your hard work and accomplishments and finally see it pay off in the end.” – Mallory Shenkenberger
“The biggest difference between freshman and senior year is that as a senior everyone seems way more approachable and appreciative. I think that because it is our last year of high school we are trying to make the most out of it and build connections with new people.” – Sara Sarkisian
What will you miss the most after you graduate?
“I will miss seeing my friends everyday. Other than that, nothing else mattered to me. That’s why it’s important to have fun.” – Travis Ozanich
“The people. I love being able to see my friends everyday.” – Hanna Moore
What is the easiest class you have taken?
“Digital Video Production” – Kiley O’Connell
“Gym” – Anna Ready
“U.S. History” – Isabel Alers
What is the hardest class you have taken?
“H2BE” – Timothy Abood
“AP Language and Composition” – Travis Ozanich
“AP Chemistry” – Eva Rackaityte
Which school dance is the best and why?
“Winter Formal is my favorite because there is no pressure to find a date. Everyone goes with their own friends and it is always the best time.” – Mallory Shenkenberger
“Homecoming! It is so well attended and the music is the best out of all of them.” – Kiley O’Connell
What is the best way to maintain friendships in high school?
“Be yourself and if people don’t like you that is their problem and you don’t have to be friends with everyone.” – Anna Ready
“Make sure you are receiving what you are giving to others. If people are not replicating the same energy that you are putting into a friendship, then try and meet someone new. You find your true friends that way because being friends should not feel like a chore.” – Mallory Shenkenberger
“Be nice and consider others feelings.” – Brooke Harvey
Everyone experiences high school differently, your high school experience won’t necessarily mirror that of others. It can take a while to feel settled into this new environment, but eventually you will get the hang of it, find the people you enjoy being around, and live out your own unique high school experience.
