Freshman, Here’s What You Need to Know

It’s easy to get lost in the wonders and freedom that high school brings to new students. It can bring opportunities and challenges never seen before by freshmen. Something all freshmen need to know is how to get through high school while also focusing on the future. So, here’s what you need to know about high school.

Regarding advice involving freshmen academics,

“I think the biggest thing is that no matter how smart you are, no matter what your background, it’s a transition to go from middle to high school. There are new expectations [and] classes become harder.” Counselor Christopher Baxter said.

Baxter also explained two points that are important for freshmen: not being afraid to ask for help and recognizing the importance of all years of high school.

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help,” Baxter said, “it’s ok not to ‘hit the ground running’ and be an expert in all of your classes at the beginning.”

Although high school only lasts four years, students ask about what comes afterwards, such as college.

“Recognizing and applying yourself early on so that is it clear to colleges from the time you start high school that you take your academics seriously and that you’re a committed student who’s willing to put in the work to learn and get better.” Baxter said

“It is never too early to start that exploration process for college.” Baxter said

This advice makes it easier for freshmen to start focusing on college and how to prepare for it.

Academics are not the only important thing, Baxter also emphasized the importance of extracurriculars,

“It doesn’t necessarily just have to be a sport or a club, even if it’s a after school job, even if it’s family responsibilities like taking care of siblings or participating in a religious institution or whatever it looks like, those things speak to you as a person and who are and what you can being to a future college” Baxter said

Baxter explained how this looks from the point of view of a college,

“Admissions offices and colleges love to see students who make an impact on their school and community, so even if it’s something you’re just doing for fun, colleges like to see that you are.” Baxter said

Baxter also gives advice for students readjusting to routine after the years of COVID-19.,

“Especially as we transition back to a sense of ‘normalcy’ after a few years with Covid and everything, I think doing as much as you can to get involved and meet people is so important, academically and socially.” Baxter said,

“So being true to yourself, being proud of yourself, no matter what your interests are, who you are, how you identify, is a key to happiness, and the key to having a really positive and successful high school career and experience.” Baxter said.