6 answers
Vanessa
Student
Lexington, Kentucky
1
Question
Asked
644 views
What should I know before going into high school?
I'm 13 and I'm going to be in 9th grade soon so I want to know some challenges I may face and what to do because I'm scared. There are some people that say it sucks and some say it's not that bad so pls help, I need answers.
6 answers
Gucci Nava
WFM Analyst
3
Answers
Santa Rosa, Calabarzon, Philippines
Updated
Gucci’s Answer
Hey, Vanessa!
High school will be a whole new ball game. You're entering your teens, and there will be a lot of new things you'll experience--emotions, growth spurts, more freedom, and responsibilities.
For some people, high school highlighted some of the best moments in their lives. Many would say that you should start being serious in high school as your attitude here will create an impact on how you live the rest of your life. This is absolutely valid, and if you can figure things out as early as you can in high school, then that's great!
As for me, I thought high school would define who I am, so I made the mistake of being too focused on my studies and taking the other aspects of life for granted. I had a difficult time adjusting to college because I gave my all in high school and I totally burned out!
My main advice to you is to just take life as it comes, one step at a time. No single moment will define who you are. Make mistakes, fail fast, and win even faster, it's okay to not figure everything out just yet. Enjoy the journey, take care of your health, and don't let high school be the only important thing in your life. It isn't the be-all, end-all; it's just another beginning.
High school will be a whole new ball game. You're entering your teens, and there will be a lot of new things you'll experience--emotions, growth spurts, more freedom, and responsibilities.
For some people, high school highlighted some of the best moments in their lives. Many would say that you should start being serious in high school as your attitude here will create an impact on how you live the rest of your life. This is absolutely valid, and if you can figure things out as early as you can in high school, then that's great!
As for me, I thought high school would define who I am, so I made the mistake of being too focused on my studies and taking the other aspects of life for granted. I had a difficult time adjusting to college because I gave my all in high school and I totally burned out!
My main advice to you is to just take life as it comes, one step at a time. No single moment will define who you are. Make mistakes, fail fast, and win even faster, it's okay to not figure everything out just yet. Enjoy the journey, take care of your health, and don't let high school be the only important thing in your life. It isn't the be-all, end-all; it's just another beginning.
ShaRon Bynum
Program Manager
31
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
ShaRon’s Answer
Vanessa,
I love that you are trying to go into High School prepared and this is a great question!
You should remember that EVERYTHING you do in high school as far as your grades and activities go will impact the options you have for the rest of your life! Focus on getting B's or Better in ALL you classes. IF you decide you want to go to College, it is a basic requirement to get admitted to good schools. You should also begin exploring your interest by joining clubs and athletic programs that will help you learn the importance of being part of a team (Student Government/Band/Choir/Any sport). Consider stepping into leadership roles as it will also help on your college admission journey.
These will be some of the best years of you young adult life, so make some friends! The people you hang around with will have a lot of influences on your life trajectory, so be mindful of the company you keep. Stick with positive young people who are working towards a future. Those who want the best for you and are willing to help you reach your goals. I always tell my children that if you have 1 good friend, you hit the lottery. This is not a quantity game! You can be friendly with more people or have a group that you hang out with BUT everybody who claims to be your friend, will not always live up to your needs and expectations. Watch how they manage the friendship, it cannot be one sided where you always are there for them but when you need a voice to listen or shoulder to cry on, they have more important things to do.
Never lend anything that you cannot afford to not get back! This includes clothes, jewelry and money! Many friendships have been broken up due to these things. Also never let a boyfriend/girlfriend come between you and your friend. It is just not worth it.
Journal. You are going to be experiencing a lot of new things and writing down you thoughts and later reflecting on things will be a good way for you to see how much you grow as a person.
Have fun, go to the movies; learn a new language, participate in school dances/sporting events and make new friends. You got this!
ShaRon Bynum
I love that you are trying to go into High School prepared and this is a great question!
You should remember that EVERYTHING you do in high school as far as your grades and activities go will impact the options you have for the rest of your life! Focus on getting B's or Better in ALL you classes. IF you decide you want to go to College, it is a basic requirement to get admitted to good schools. You should also begin exploring your interest by joining clubs and athletic programs that will help you learn the importance of being part of a team (Student Government/Band/Choir/Any sport). Consider stepping into leadership roles as it will also help on your college admission journey.
These will be some of the best years of you young adult life, so make some friends! The people you hang around with will have a lot of influences on your life trajectory, so be mindful of the company you keep. Stick with positive young people who are working towards a future. Those who want the best for you and are willing to help you reach your goals. I always tell my children that if you have 1 good friend, you hit the lottery. This is not a quantity game! You can be friendly with more people or have a group that you hang out with BUT everybody who claims to be your friend, will not always live up to your needs and expectations. Watch how they manage the friendship, it cannot be one sided where you always are there for them but when you need a voice to listen or shoulder to cry on, they have more important things to do.
Never lend anything that you cannot afford to not get back! This includes clothes, jewelry and money! Many friendships have been broken up due to these things. Also never let a boyfriend/girlfriend come between you and your friend. It is just not worth it.
Journal. You are going to be experiencing a lot of new things and writing down you thoughts and later reflecting on things will be a good way for you to see how much you grow as a person.
Have fun, go to the movies; learn a new language, participate in school dances/sporting events and make new friends. You got this!
ShaRon Bynum
Dino Ubalde
Educator/Psychologist/Life Coach
204
Answers
Tracy, California
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Vanessa, I appreciate you reaching out. Your question sparks a sense of nostalgia, taking me back to the days before I started high school. To be honest, the only real difference is that you're becoming more independent. You're growing up, developing ideals, and noticing changes in yourself and those around you. But don't fret, these changes are a normal part of your development. We've all been through this process, so there's no need for concern.
Just stay aware of who you are, your main goals in school, your priorities, and learn to set boundaries and assert yourself. Remember, all students have similar worries, and it's perfectly normal. The most important thing is that you're eager to learn, respectful of yourself and others, and strive to do good wherever you go.
Adopting a mindset of continuous learning and development will help shape your perspective as a person and as a student. If you embrace this, you'll go far. You'll find it easier to adapt to new situations and environments.
So, relish your high school journey and create unforgettable experiences with others. Always approach school with a happy heart and a mind focused on the bright future that lies ahead. Best of luck!
Visit you counselor and ask some advice being in high school.
Develop positive connections with high school students and I am sure they will share many things about you.
Attend some talks about high school life and learn from different students about expectations and experiences.
Just stay aware of who you are, your main goals in school, your priorities, and learn to set boundaries and assert yourself. Remember, all students have similar worries, and it's perfectly normal. The most important thing is that you're eager to learn, respectful of yourself and others, and strive to do good wherever you go.
Adopting a mindset of continuous learning and development will help shape your perspective as a person and as a student. If you embrace this, you'll go far. You'll find it easier to adapt to new situations and environments.
So, relish your high school journey and create unforgettable experiences with others. Always approach school with a happy heart and a mind focused on the bright future that lies ahead. Best of luck!
Dino recommends the following next steps:
Teena Marty
Sales; Consulting
8
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Teena’s Answer
Congratulations on beginning high school! This will be a whole new experience and I would offer one main thing to think about..... everyone who has walked through those doors of your high school have all done it a "first time". They all know the feeling of the first day jitters and of learning a new routine -- new teachers, new subjects to learn and new opportunities for joining clubs and activities. It is natural to feel a little scared because you are uncertain about the new challenges. But know that you are not along, rely on your friends and make new friends of all grades. Be brave and the stay the course of your education. These next 4 years of high school will be an adventure and hopefully a positive one. Study, Learn and Have Fun!! Best of luck to you!!
Andrew B
Sales
6
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
Hey Vanessa,
Great question. I find that whenever I start something new, many times I am excited and scared at the same time. It's normal to feel both. The fact that you recognize that you are scared is great. Hopefully, it helps you to know that you are not alone.
My advice to you is to take it one day at a time. High school is what you make it. It's a great time to learn and expand who you are. It's a great time to learn more about yourself and others, explore your interests, speak with teachers, join clubs, and prepare for your future.
There can be challenging moments. I encourage you to stay positive and continue to remind yourself of your bigger picture. Think of high school as a stepping stone to help you get to where you're going next.
Hope this helps and good luck!
Great question. I find that whenever I start something new, many times I am excited and scared at the same time. It's normal to feel both. The fact that you recognize that you are scared is great. Hopefully, it helps you to know that you are not alone.
My advice to you is to take it one day at a time. High school is what you make it. It's a great time to learn and expand who you are. It's a great time to learn more about yourself and others, explore your interests, speak with teachers, join clubs, and prepare for your future.
There can be challenging moments. I encourage you to stay positive and continue to remind yourself of your bigger picture. Think of high school as a stepping stone to help you get to where you're going next.
Hope this helps and good luck!
Lilia Bidzyan
Sales Strategy Senior Analyst
9
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Lilia’s Answer
Hi Vanessa,
Thank you for your question. It's definitely very normal to feel overwhelmed before going into high school! As with any life change, the change in what you're used to every day can feel stressful and overwhelming. First, I think it is great that you're already proactively thinking ahead to high school. By anticipating challenges you might run into an planning ahead, you will ensure that when you are already in high school, that the process of adjusting is a lot easier.
Some things to help you prepare include:
1. Look into what types of courses you will be taking the first year. Is there any way you can prepare for those courses?
2. Make a list of goals you'd like to accomplish your first year in high school. For example, is there a certain GPA you'd like to aim for?
3. Think about what types of clubs and activities you'd like to join in school
Hope that the above is helpful, and best of luck!
Thank you for your question. It's definitely very normal to feel overwhelmed before going into high school! As with any life change, the change in what you're used to every day can feel stressful and overwhelming. First, I think it is great that you're already proactively thinking ahead to high school. By anticipating challenges you might run into an planning ahead, you will ensure that when you are already in high school, that the process of adjusting is a lot easier.
Some things to help you prepare include:
1. Look into what types of courses you will be taking the first year. Is there any way you can prepare for those courses?
2. Make a list of goals you'd like to accomplish your first year in high school. For example, is there a certain GPA you'd like to aim for?
3. Think about what types of clubs and activities you'd like to join in school
Hope that the above is helpful, and best of luck!
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