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What can I start doing once I get to Highschool?
What can I do in Highschool to prepare myself more for college and what clubs or other things should I join in Highschool to feel more included and/or meet new people?
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4 answers
Alan Weber
writer and retired teacher, teacher educator and academic advisor
207
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Woodstock, New York
Updated
Alan’s Answer
Hi, Mareli. The fact that you're already thinking about preparing yourself is admirable. I would suggest the following:
* Read. Become a reader who is fluent, focused and comfortable.
* Write. Develop your writing skills, getting away from the bad habits created by texting and apathetic writing.
* Get organized. Build your organization and time management skills. You're going to need them. Avoid procrastinating.
* Become more comfortable making decisions and trying new things. That's what distinguishes college from high school.
* Start thinking about what you want to focus on for a major and a career. Consider your interests, hobbies, experiences, skills and values.
* And yes, become part of things, social and practical. Join clubs that may be relevant to your potential career goals or may build skills you will need to become successful, or will just help you become more sociable, relaxed, healthy and happy.
* Read. Become a reader who is fluent, focused and comfortable.
* Write. Develop your writing skills, getting away from the bad habits created by texting and apathetic writing.
* Get organized. Build your organization and time management skills. You're going to need them. Avoid procrastinating.
* Become more comfortable making decisions and trying new things. That's what distinguishes college from high school.
* Start thinking about what you want to focus on for a major and a career. Consider your interests, hobbies, experiences, skills and values.
* And yes, become part of things, social and practical. Join clubs that may be relevant to your potential career goals or may build skills you will need to become successful, or will just help you become more sociable, relaxed, healthy and happy.
Updated
Enise’s Answer
Hello Mareli,
You can track your progression during your academic year (with calendar, timetable, and to do list daily). Once you have planned and organised what you will do in the future, you can start to progress, and you can adapt the high school journey. The one thing you should know about highschool is that when you are a beginner, you should prepare yourself for your academic performance; first you should target your goals and make a plan about your academic year, and after you can create a timetable and make a list of what you will do with to do list, and you should look at your academic calendar (exams etc.).
In your academic year, you should look at the variety of clubs at the college, because nobody will know which clubs are present. If you want to join the club or join clubs you want, you should know what is your hobby or are your hobbies. If you have not decided which club you should join, most student will guide you (or a teacher you trust the most).
In terms of meeting new friends, you should not forve yourself to make friends around you; but you should be surrounded by few friends who you should stay in touch. The first week will probably give your anxiety first, yet do not worry about too much, you can join any club so that you can meet friends from other classes. If you feel alone, you can be a volunteer in any charities that supported by your college.
I hope this helps
You can track your progression during your academic year (with calendar, timetable, and to do list daily). Once you have planned and organised what you will do in the future, you can start to progress, and you can adapt the high school journey. The one thing you should know about highschool is that when you are a beginner, you should prepare yourself for your academic performance; first you should target your goals and make a plan about your academic year, and after you can create a timetable and make a list of what you will do with to do list, and you should look at your academic calendar (exams etc.).
In your academic year, you should look at the variety of clubs at the college, because nobody will know which clubs are present. If you want to join the club or join clubs you want, you should know what is your hobby or are your hobbies. If you have not decided which club you should join, most student will guide you (or a teacher you trust the most).
In terms of meeting new friends, you should not forve yourself to make friends around you; but you should be surrounded by few friends who you should stay in touch. The first week will probably give your anxiety first, yet do not worry about too much, you can join any club so that you can meet friends from other classes. If you feel alone, you can be a volunteer in any charities that supported by your college.
I hope this helps
Updated
Shondra’s Answer
Hi Mareli! My first piece of advice would be to make an appointment to speak with your guidance counselor and/or college and career advisors. Ask for a timeliness of when you should take college exams, submit applications, scholarship opportunities, etc. I would say join clubs based on your interests. You want to meet new people but you want to also be sure to have fun while doing so. Best of luck in your every endeavor!
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
High school is a great time to start preparing for college and building a well-rounded skill set. Here are some steps you can take to make the most of your high school experience:
1. **Focus on Academics:**
- Prioritize your studies and maintain good grades. A strong academic foundation is crucial for college admissions.
2. **Explore Interests:**
- Join clubs or extracurricular activities that align with your interests. Whether it's sports, music, debate, or science, pursuing your passions can be both enjoyable and personally rewarding.
3. **Take Challenging Courses:**
- Consider enrolling in honors, Advanced Placement (AP), or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if they're available. These courses can help you develop advanced academic skills and demonstrate your commitment to learning.
4. **Build Time Management Skills:**
- Learn to manage your time effectively to balance academics, extracurriculars, and personal life. This skill will be invaluable in college.
5. **Participate in Community Service:**
- Get involved in community service or volunteer activities. It's a great way to give back and build your character.
6. **Develop Strong Study Habits:**
- Establish effective study habits, including organization, note-taking, and time management. These skills will serve you well in college.
7. **Seek Leadership Opportunities:**
- Look for opportunities to take on leadership roles in clubs, teams, or student government. Leadership experience demonstrates initiative and responsibility.
8. **Cultivate Relationships with Teachers:**
- Build positive relationships with your teachers. They can provide valuable guidance, mentorship, and recommendation letters for college applications.
9. **Research Colleges and Scholarships:**
- Start researching colleges and scholarships early to understand your options and requirements. Create a list of colleges that align with your goals and interests.
10. **Prepare for Standardized Tests:**
- Begin preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Take practice tests and consider enrolling in test prep courses if needed.
11. **Explore Career Interests:**
- Explore different career paths and interests through internships or part-time jobs. This can help you gain real-world experience and clarify your goals.
12. **Stay Informed:**
- Stay informed about college admissions requirements, deadlines, and application processes. Attend college fairs and information sessions.
13. **Take Care of Your Health:**
- Prioritize your physical and mental health. A balanced and healthy lifestyle will support your overall well-being and academic success.
14. **Cultivate a Growth Mindset:**
- Embrace challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth. A growth mindset can help you overcome obstacles and persevere.
15. **Build Relationships:**
- Focus on building genuine friendships and connections with your peers. High school is a time for personal growth and social development.
Remember that high school is a time for exploration and self-discovery. Take advantage of the opportunities available to you, be open to trying new things, and don't be afraid to ask for guidance from teachers, counselors, and mentors. Your high school experience can set a strong foundation for a successful college journey and beyond.
1. **Focus on Academics:**
- Prioritize your studies and maintain good grades. A strong academic foundation is crucial for college admissions.
2. **Explore Interests:**
- Join clubs or extracurricular activities that align with your interests. Whether it's sports, music, debate, or science, pursuing your passions can be both enjoyable and personally rewarding.
3. **Take Challenging Courses:**
- Consider enrolling in honors, Advanced Placement (AP), or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if they're available. These courses can help you develop advanced academic skills and demonstrate your commitment to learning.
4. **Build Time Management Skills:**
- Learn to manage your time effectively to balance academics, extracurriculars, and personal life. This skill will be invaluable in college.
5. **Participate in Community Service:**
- Get involved in community service or volunteer activities. It's a great way to give back and build your character.
6. **Develop Strong Study Habits:**
- Establish effective study habits, including organization, note-taking, and time management. These skills will serve you well in college.
7. **Seek Leadership Opportunities:**
- Look for opportunities to take on leadership roles in clubs, teams, or student government. Leadership experience demonstrates initiative and responsibility.
8. **Cultivate Relationships with Teachers:**
- Build positive relationships with your teachers. They can provide valuable guidance, mentorship, and recommendation letters for college applications.
9. **Research Colleges and Scholarships:**
- Start researching colleges and scholarships early to understand your options and requirements. Create a list of colleges that align with your goals and interests.
10. **Prepare for Standardized Tests:**
- Begin preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Take practice tests and consider enrolling in test prep courses if needed.
11. **Explore Career Interests:**
- Explore different career paths and interests through internships or part-time jobs. This can help you gain real-world experience and clarify your goals.
12. **Stay Informed:**
- Stay informed about college admissions requirements, deadlines, and application processes. Attend college fairs and information sessions.
13. **Take Care of Your Health:**
- Prioritize your physical and mental health. A balanced and healthy lifestyle will support your overall well-being and academic success.
14. **Cultivate a Growth Mindset:**
- Embrace challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth. A growth mindset can help you overcome obstacles and persevere.
15. **Build Relationships:**
- Focus on building genuine friendships and connections with your peers. High school is a time for personal growth and social development.
Remember that high school is a time for exploration and self-discovery. Take advantage of the opportunities available to you, be open to trying new things, and don't be afraid to ask for guidance from teachers, counselors, and mentors. Your high school experience can set a strong foundation for a successful college journey and beyond.