Now, as someone who was scared and nervous about high school, you will be glad to keep reading to hear about what I wasn’t expecting. Walking into high school was a whole new experience for me; you get more freedom, but more work. I was thinking about how high school looks in movies, and it’s something related to, but not as much in a good way. 

Here’s a list of advice to help you survive, and things people don’t always tell you about high school. 

Friends and people will change 

Don’t be scared to get out there and create new bonds with people. Some of these people will be good friends throughout the whole school year, but not everyone will stay your friend, so always remember that you have yourself, and you can be your own friend. Don’t count on your friends to help you with anything and everything because you need to learn how to do things by yourself and step out of your comfort zone. 

Freshman year is important 

You might think that since it’s only the first year, grades aren’t as important. But that’s a lie, freshman year is just as important as senior year academically. When in high school, they will look at your grades from the first 3 years, while they won’t look at the 4th as much, since that’s when you will start applying to colleges/universities. So make sure to stay on top of your grades, but one bad test grade won’t be the end of your life. 

Mental Health is first 

Always remember to prioritize your health, even though school is important. If you are struggling, overwhelmed, or feeling a little blue, reach out to your guidance counselor or talk to a trusted adult. You can’t do well in school if your mental health is not good. 

Lunch is weird at first

First lunch of the year, you’re just looking around to see where to sit. You probably won’t have anybody to sit with, which is normal, I can promise you’re not the only one. You can look around to see who’s also sitting by themselves and invite them to sit with you. It’ll get better.

Getting lost is normal 

It might be a new school for you, or you might have a new schedule, so you’re going to get lost. Be prepared to take a wrong turn or wrong flight of stairs. It’s okay to ask someone for directions; most of the time, they are nice. 

Some days will be rough, but that’s life

Not every day will be sunshine and rainbows; some days you will feel like it’s the end of your life, and some might be the best. Late assignments, stress, studying for a test, it’s going to happen. But one day you will be laughing in the hallway or get a great grade on the test you thought you’d fail. 

Discipline yourself/ create a routine 

This is very important, you want to create a morning routine because it will help the days when you’re dragging your feet. It will help you stay on top of all your assignments and responsibilities. Additionally, it will create a good habit for the future and help reduce stress because you will know what to expect every day, so you don’t have to juggle multiple things. 

Set goals/ remember 

Setting goals will help you see what you can accomplish and what you’re capable of achieving. It will help you grow into the person you want to be. However, always remember that you have to want things for yourself; teachers can’t want good grades for you because that’s something you must be willing to put in the work for.